Anthony Pettis showed Japan why he earned the nickname “Showtime”, blasting Joe “J-Lau” Lauzon with a Cro Cop-style left high kick and ending their fight just 1:21 into the very first round. The finish was reminiscent of GSP-Matt Hughes 2 in that Lauzon clearly thought the kick was going low before it landed high and flush on Lauzon’s jaw.
After the fight, Pettis immediately made no bones about wanting to face the UFC Lightweight champion, no matter who they may be. When discussing the fight itself, Pettis noted:
“Winning that fight is an amazing feeling. I was on a bit of a down streak in 2011, but 2012 is my year and I’m getting a title shot. I’m back, focused and ready to go, I didn’t get touched. I think I confused him with my southpaw, had him biting on the jab then threw the high kick and it landed. I wanted to put on a good show for the fans because without them, I wouldn’t be Anthony Pettis.”
