LAS VEGAS – Tabatha Ricci’s first octagon stoppage came in impressive fashion against former title challenger Jessica Penne at UFC 285.
Ricci (8-1 MMA, 3-1 UFC) was the first of Saturday’s event to finish a fight inside the distance when she tapped out Penne (13-7 MMA, 2-5 UFC) with an armbar in the second round of their strawweight bout at T-Mobile Arena.
“Baby Shark” looked great essentially from beginning to end, dominating Penne in all areas before a final takedown to the mat got her in position to lock in the submission for the win at the 2:14 mark of Round 2.
Check out the replay of Ricci’s victory below (via Twitter):
'BABY SHARK' LOCKS UP THE ARMBAR 💪🦈 #UFC285 pic.twitter.com/HIBQwkdvUd
— ESPN+ (@ESPNPlus) March 4, 2023
Ricci’s victory over Penne marked her third consecutive triumph inside the octagon. The 28-year-old has some momentum on her side at 115 pounds and said big things are ahead.
“This is the start of the ‘Baby Shark’ era,” Ricci told Joe Rogan during their post-fight interview.
The latest UFC 285 results include:
- Tabatha Ricci def. Jessica Penne via submission (armbar) – Round 2, 2:14.
- Farid Basharat def. Da’Mon Blackshear unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
- Loik Radzhabov def. Esteban Ribovics unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 285.
