FightPost MMA Fighter of the Week: Vicente Luque

FightPost MMA Fighter of the Week: Vicente Luque

By James Heaney

The UFC entered a new market this weekend, taking with them a title fight and local talents to build anticipation and interest.

Building new markets or developing existing ones outside of the US, Canada and Brazil is big business for the UFC. There is always pressure on fights to deliver excitement and key moments which will be remember and talked about amongst fans and the media.

As those in attendance left the Antel Arena on Saturday night it’s unlikely they were discussing the main event, despite Shevchenkos dominance, but more likely the fight of the night between Mike Perry and this weeks Fighter of The Week, Vincente Luque.

Luque went into the fight as a -125 favourite, taking in a 5 fight KO/TKO winning streak and found himself up against a strong and durable Mike Perry, who is often not given the credit he deserves for his technical ability.

The Brazilian was able to impose his striking ability but also had to absorb combinations from Perry each time he was given space to set them up. Luque pressed forward throughout, using a mixture of leg kicks and punches to push Perry back.

The major talking point of the fight came in the third round as Luque landed a huge knee to Perry, breaking the nose. The fight ended after the subsequent takedown and Luque was awarded his first decision win of his UFC career.

It was the biggest win of his career, a Fight of The Night performance against a real test in Mike Perry, to help the UFC successfully introduce themselves to the Uruguay market.

Both fighters deserve credit for the 15 minutes display but Luque took a huge step forward in his career and will surely get the Top 10 opponent he deserves.

Luque called out Stephen Thompson post-fight to set up a great striking battle which could happen by the end of the year. The “Silent Assassin” is continuing to make noise and getting attention.