UFC BJJ is back with its first event of the year. This featured 2 title matches and some good names as well. We got some new faces and some people we've seen before. I'm happy to see they are trying to build up their divisions, but having matches such as Andy Varela vs Andy Murasaki or Jonatas Gracie vs Yan Lucas. These types are matches are needed to build contenders and show that these aren't just random supergfights where they feed people to the champs. Hopefully they continue with this and start to build up the lower divisions instead of just have Mikey Musumeci run through someone every 3 months.
We also got the return on Meregali who has been out for almost 2 years now. I wasn't sure he was ever coming back, so he stepped back on the mat here and took the first step to reclaiming his former glory. Let's take a look at the results now.
Results
Jalen Fonacier def Carlos "Bebeto" Oliveria via Inside heelhook
Carol Brunacio def Mona Bailey via dec
Rerisson Gabriel def Landon Elmore via dec
Jonatas Gracie def Yan Lucas via dec
Rebecca Lima def Taylor Ellis via Estima lock
Andy Murasaki def Andy Varela via Armbar
Nicholas Meregali def Nicco Maglicic via dec
Ronaldo Junior def Tarik Hopstock via dec
Mikey Musumeci def Shay Montague via Ankle lock
How People Won
44% of the matches ended in sub, which I think is great. For the most part the matches were good and the action was flowing, but there were some slow matches and times when things weren't moving as fast as I'd like. However some of the matches were good. The Jalen Fonacier match was a bit too good, as he won in 15 seconds.
I was a bit surprised that there were no chokes, but that happens sometimes. I think overall the amount of subs was really good and most of the matches were good even when they didn't end in submission. Let's take a look down below at the other stats as well.
Stats
Overall
I think this was another successful UFC BJJ event. It wasn't the best event they've had, but there was some good action, big names and submissions. I was happy to see Mikey try a new strategy and show some other parts of his game against a good opponent. We'll see if this continues or if it was a one off, but I enjoyed it. Jalen was also amazing and I hope they create a belt for him. Andy Murasaki also deserves a title shot against Andrew Tackett. Jonatas Gracie also won and he is deserving, but the way Andy won puts him clearly above the pack to me. I was happy to see Meregali back in action as well. Right now many of the BJJ stars have moved on and his star power is needed more than ever, so I'm glad he is healed up and looking great on the mats. Ronaldo Junior retained his belt, but the match was a bit lackluster. To be fair to him he was sick before the match and likely wasn't able to perform at 100%.
UFC BJJ is getting better and they seem to be doing better when it comes to match making, but IMO they need to find someone else to recruit names and find talent. I'd also like to see a BJJ pro or BJJ commentator added to the broadcast booth. They need someone who can give a more solid technical analysis during the matches. I don't mind them using former UFC fighters, but they also need people who are up to date on the latest BJJ techniques and strategies. They are getting better, but if they want a high level product they really should improve that aspect. Especially considering I doubt the cost is that great. I'd recommend either Shawn Williams or BMac if possible.
This weekend the ADCC trails are happening, so I'll post the yearly sub stats after that, so stay tuned.
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