Victor Hugo delivered an impressive submission victory at UFC Fight Pass Invitational 10 in Las Vegas on Thursday night, marking a highlight of the grappling event.
The main event featured Hugo against Nicky Rodriguez, a CJI champion and two-time ADCC silver medalist. Rodriguez, with a 7-1 FPI record, sought to overcome his previous losses against Hugo. However, Hugo ultimately secured the win.
Hugo, a four-time IBJJF world champion under Alexandre Ribeiro, used his weight advantage to neutralize Rodriguez’s attempts during regulation time. Despite a stalemate that led to a reset by referee Vitor Ribeiro, neither athlete could gain a significant advantage.
In overtime, Hugo initiated guard to prevent Rodriguez from scoring takedown points. Again, their position resulted in a standstill, and the referee separated them. This time, Hugo surprised Rodriguez by countering a takedown, taking his back, and executing a rear-naked choke for the submission victory.
Following his win, Hugo called out Gordon Ryan, seeking a rematch of their ADCC 2022 match where Ryan won by points (8-0).
“I believe Gordon Ryan is the only one who has defeated Nicky Rod on this platform,” Hugo stated. “Although he may not be currently active, facing Gordon Ryan would be an honor if he is willing. After defeating Nicky, a match with Gordon seems to be the most logical next step. I am aware of his health issues, just as I have had my own, and I hope he recovers. Whenever he is ready and accepts the challenge, I will be here, ready for the match.”
In the co-main event, Oliver Taza aimed for redemption against Renato Canuto after a prior loss at ADCC 2019. Despite a close and technical match, Canuto scored points in overtime to secure a victory, maintaining his undefeated FPI record of 4-0.
Canuto announced post-match his signing with Tuff-N-Uff for a four-fight MMA debut later in the year.
Another highlight of the evening was Brianna Ste-Marie’s Von Flue choke submission against Elisabeth Clay, after transitioning from a perceived arm-triangle attempt.
Andy Murasaki and Daniel Sathler, former teammates, had an intense match with slaps and kicks during regulation. However, in overtime, Murasaki secured a heel hook submission.
Earlier in the event, rising talents from veteran jiu-jitsu families competed.
Cassia Moura, Bruno Bastos’s daughter, faced Sarah Galvao, Andre Galvao’s daughter, and gained a points victory. Achilles Rocha, son of Vagner Rocha, drew in points with Nathan Haddad but won by judges’ decision.
Alex Enriquez and Carlos Henrique started the event with submissions against Julia Alves and Victor Delibero, respectively.
Watch the finishes from the event.
