Going into UFC 173, Takeya Mizugaki and Francisco Rivera was a highly anticipated fight due to their recent success in the UFC. Currently ranked sixth and tenth respectively, Mizugaki and Rivera have solid records and have been able to grind out some fantastic fights in their continuously impressive UFC careers. Depending on how this fight played out, both fighters had a chance at climbing the bantamweight rankings and could get into the title picture down the line.
Takeya Mizugaki gets the Decision Victory Over Francisco Rivera
As the first round got underway, both fighters took the time to feel each other out and kept their distance for about the first minute. As the second minute rolled around, both fighters started throwing combos and it was Mizugaki who got the first big blows in. He landed a solid combo on Rivera’s chin which sent his eyes rolling back. Though he hit the mat and was in a bad position, Rivera was able to recover and got to his feet by the two minute mark. While Mizugaki tried to use the fence to get some clinch offense going, Rivera was able to sneak a quick takedown but the Japanese native got up almost immediately. As the round concluded, both fighters went into crazy mode and landed some solid blows before the bell.
The second round started with both fighters throwing powerful combos but not landing very much. While some punches were able to sneak in, it did not seem like any damage was done. When up against the cage, Rivera pulled guard and went for a guillotine but Mizugaki was able to break free and gain top position. It was evident that Rivera lost a lot of gas in the second round, which helped Mizugaki gain dominant positions as the round concluded. Though Mizugaki seemed to dominate most of the round, Rivera opened a cut above the left eye of Mizugaki.
In the third and final round, both fighters looked tired and punches were landing equally. Mizugaki was cut above the right eye as well, but was able to get the first knock down of the round. He gained top position and was trying to get a ground-and-pound going against the feisty Rivera. Mizugaki continued to dominate from top position and seemed to be the main factor for him to get the decision. Rivera was unable to get up as the fight wore down and Mizugaki continued to land some punches on the ground.
Mizugaki secured the unanimous victory over Rivera by grinding out the bout and staying on top for most of the fight. Look for him to get a solid increase in talent in his next bout.
