Pedro Rizzo may not have what it takes to compete with the top heavyweights in today’s MMA landscape, but he certainly has what it takes to put away an aging Ken Shamrock.
The veteran pair headlined last night’s “Impact FC 2: The Uprising” event in Sydney, Australia.
Rizzo, 36, used strong leg kicks to tear Shamrock’s left leg apart in the first round. Shamrock visibly winced after Rizzo landed several kicks to the leg. Rizzo lashed out with one final leg kick that caused Shamrock to take a knee, likely in an effort to get out of the fight without taking more punishment. Rizzo followed up with some light punches on the ground and forced John McCarthy to stop the bout and award Rizzo the victory.
Shamrock has gone 3-8 in his past 11 bouts dating back to 2001.
DALEY REBOUNDS FROM UFC CUT
Paul Daley’s last bout didn’t go so well. He was taken down repeatedly by Josh Koscheck and lost a title contender’s bout, and then he sucker-punched Koscheck after the fight. UFC President Dana White immediately fired Daley from the UFC and said he’d never fight in the promotion again. Daley immediately turned his attention overseas and began the first phase of his comeback with a victory over Daniel Acacio last night.
Daley and Acacio were evenly matched during the first two rounds of the bout, with Daley unable to put Acacio away with his striking but showing an improved ground game during stalemates on the mat.
In the third round, Acacio pulled guard in an effort to avoid Daley’s pinpoint violent strikes. Daley unleashed a brutal elbow that opened a deep gash on Acacio’s forehead. Acacio immediately issued a verbal submission and the bout was stopped.
“NINJA” RUA EARNS FOURTH STRAIGHT VICTORY
Murilo “Ninja” Rua doesn’t have the pedigree of his brother Mauricio, but he’s earning some attention from major promotions around the world because of one thing: he keeps winning.
Rua was in trouble early and often during his Impact FC bout with Jeremy May, but rebounded late in the first round to secure a guillotine choke and earn the submission victory.
OFFICIAL RESULTS
Pedro Rizzo d. Ken Shamrock via TKO (Round 1, 3:33)
Paul Daley d. Daniel Acacio via submission (Round 3, 1:15)
Soa Palelei d. Brad Morris via submission (Round 1, 4:20)
Denis Kang drew Paulo Filho (Split draw)
Murilo “Ninja Rua d. Jeremy May via submission (Round 1, 4:02)