Erik Perez Defeats Francisco Rivera In Bloody Fracas
Two bantamweights did battle inside the Octagon for the second bout on the main card of UFC 201. Alliance MMA member Erik Perez (16-6) fought Francisco Rivera (11-7, 1 NC). “El Goyito” looked to build off his decision win over Taylor Lapilus back in Nov. 2015. “Cisco” hoped to avoid the fifth loss in his last six bouts and a potential pink slip.
“El Goyito” earned his second straight win.
Rivera drew first with two left hooks. Perez had his uppercut and high kick blocked. A right hand found the jaw for Rivera. “El Goyito” caught a kick and landed some punches. Perez scored a takedown briefly and held “Cisco” against the fence. He landed a knee on the break. An inside leg kick found the mark for Perez. The story of round one was Rivera’s patience wearing off once Perez found success on the outside.
An inside leg kick sent Rivera off balance and to the mat. Perez landed some punches as “Cisco” returned to his feet.
“El Goyito” went for a spinning back elbow, grazing his opponent. Perez built off his late success in the first round and blood trickled on the right side of Rivera’s head. Perez landed a leg kick that caused Rivera to wince. He capitalized with a takedown and remained in control until the end of the round.
The two fighters came out guns blazing in the final stanza. Rivera landed some punches, but swung so hard he fell over and appeared to punch himself out. Perez scored a takedown and blood dripped from the head of “Cisco.” Perez landed body punches to keep the fight from being stood back up. Rivera returned to his feet, but “El Goyito” kept the clinch until 15 seconds was left. The final horn sounded with Rivera missing a high kick.
All three judges saw the fight for Perez and he was awarded the win.
Final Result: Erik Perez def. Francisco Rivera via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 29-28)
