Jacobe Smith defeats Niko Price by rear-naked choke at UFC 317, avoids historic upset
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Jacobe Smith defeats Niko Price via second-round rear-naked choke at UFC 317, maintaining his undefeated record and avoiding what would have been the biggest upset in UFC history
Jacobe Smith submits Niko Price in UFC 317 prelim bout
Jacobe Smith secured a second-round submission victory over UFC veteran Niko Price on the prelims of UFC 317, held in Las Vegas as part of International Fight Week. Smith entered the bout as a -2500 favorite, the largest recorded odds advantage in UFC history.
The welterweight contest served as the featured Fight Pass preliminary matchup on the card. Smith, who earned a knockout win in his UFC debut earlier in the year, wasted little time asserting control in his second Octagon appearance.
Also read: UFC 317 full fight card, start time, odds, and how to watch: Oliveira vs. Topuria headlines international He landed an early takedown in the first round and maintained positional dominance throughout, using effective ground control to limit Price's offensive opportunities. Smith inflicted damage from top position, opening a cut on Price and nearly securing a stoppage with a barrage of strikes before the end of the round.
Undefeated welterweight maintains perfect record with second-round finishPrice, known for his durability and fan-friendly style, managed to survive the first frame but could not turn the tide. In the second round, Smith continued to press forward, taking the fight back to the mat.During a scramble, Smith took Price's back and secured a rear-naked choke. Price was forced to submit, giving Smith a second consecutive UFC win and keeping his professional record unblemished.
UFC commentator Daniel Cormier praised the technique on the broadcast, calling the submission 'beautiful.' Smith's performance reinforced his rising profile in the welterweight division, particularly given the expectations that came with his historic betting line. The bout took place on the undercard of UFC 317, which featured two championship fights. The main event is set to be the last match for the night at T-Mobile Arena with Ilia Topuria against former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title. The co-main event sees flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja defend his belt against Kai Kara-France.
Also read: Dana White responds to UFC 317 overlapping with Jake Paul fight: 'that's how concerned I am'
Smith's finish adds to a growing highlight reel and establishes him as a fighter to watch as the UFC welterweight division continues to evolve. No official word has been given regarding his next opponent.
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