Olivier Aubin-Mercier Chokes Thibault Gouti In Ottawa
Olivier Aubin-Mercier (8-2) made his sixth appearance inside the Octagon at UFC Fight Night 89. His dance partner was Thibault Gouti (11-2), who suffered the first loss of his career in his Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) debut.
In a battle of fighters looking to rebound, it was “The Quebec Kid” who got back on track.
The two lightweights met at the center of the Octagon to begin the bout. An early takedown attempt was made by Aubin-Mercier, but his opponent stuffed it and popped him with a right hand. Aubin-Mercier threw out a jumping knee. A high kick was blocked by Gouti. “The Quebec Kid” finished a takedown. The ground and pound opened a cute above Gouti’s eyebrow. Aubin-Mercier lost his position and Gouti rained down punches. Both men engaged in the standup once again. Gouti charged at his opponent and threw leather before the round ended.
Aubin-Mercier landed a body kick early in the second stanza, but had his takedown attempt thwarted. A combination found the target for “The Quebec Kid.” Aubin-Mercier slammed Gouti to the canvas to avoid a guillotine choke. He landed some short elbows on Gouti. Aubin-Mercier remained in top control until the horn sounded.
A single leg attempt from “The Quebec Kid” allowed him to press Gouti against the fence. He eventually dragged his opponent to the mat and took his back. Aubin-Mercier locked in the body triangle and searched for a rear naked choke. He eventually found it and earned the submission victory.
Final Result: Olivier Aubin-Mercier def. Thibault Gouti via Submission (rear-naked choke) – R3, 2:28
