UFC Fight Pass Invitational 9 Results: Mikey Musumeci Wins Debut but Aims Higher
Mikey Musumeci made a successful debut at UFC Fight Pass Invitational 9, but it wasn’t the flawless performance he hoped for. The five-time IBJJF world champion and former ONE Championship flyweight submission grappling titleholder stepped into the spotlight against Felipe Machado with high expectations after recently signing an exclusive grappling deal with the UFC. And while he walked away with a decision win, Musumeci was candid about his disappointment in not securing the finish.
Musumeci vs. Machado: A Strategic Battle
From the opening bell, Musumeci showed why he’s considered one of the best grapplers in the game. Pulling guard almost immediately, he initiated a relentless chain of leg attacks but seemed to be hyper-focused on pulling off the straight ankle lock, keeping Machado on the defensive and off-balance throughout the match. Machado, however, proved resilient, demonstrating excellent defensive awareness to stave off submission attempts.
Regulation time ran out with neither grappler able to secure a finish, and overtime followed a similar script: Musumeci attacking and Machado defending. Ultimately, Musumeci earned a decision victory, but it was clear he expected more from himself.
Musumeci’s Post-Fight Reflections
When asked if he was happy with his performance, Musumeci didn’t sugarcoat his feelings. “Not really. I didn’t finish the fight, so I failed,” he admitted. Despite controlling the match and dictating its pace, Musumeci held himself to the highest standard.
“I just want to apologize to the fans for not getting a finish today,” he continued. “I did my best. I’ll get better, and the next time, I hope I can finish.”
A Night of High-Level Grappling
The main event was just one part of an exciting evening of submission grappling at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The card showcased a mix of established stars and rising talents delivering memorable performances. Among the highlights:
• Renato Canuto secured a decision win over Jason Nolf in a fast-paced match.
• Ronaldo Junior and Jonnatas Gracie both delivered stunning D’Arce choke finishes.
• Raquel Canuto showcased her dominance with a rear-naked choke victory over Michele Oliveira.
• Maggie Grindatti Lira caught Giovanna Carneiro with a slick heel hook in a technical display.
Full Results:
• Mikey Musumeci def. Felipe Machado via decision
• Renato Canuto def. Jason Nolf via decision
• Ronaldo Junior def. Nick Mataya via submission (D’Arce choke)
• Jonnatas Gracie def. Kyle Chambers via submission (D’Arce choke)
• Raquel Canuto def. Michele Oliveira via submission (rear-naked choke)
• Ryan Aitken def. Gabriel Almeida via decision
• Maggie Grindatti Lira def. Giovanna Carneiro via submission (heel hook)
• Damien Anderson def. Sandrey Silva via submission (rear-naked choke)
• Luccas Lira def. Michael Pixley via decision
• Lavinia Barbosa def. Shelby Murphey via decision
Looking Ahead
Musumeci’s debut may not have ended in a highlight-reel submission, but his ability to control and outmaneuver a tough opponent like Machado speaks volumes about his technical prowess. With his sights set on improvement, fans can expect an even sharper Mikey Musumeci next time out.
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