Imagine learning a fight-winning technique just moments before stepping into the octagon—straight from one of the most legendary submission artists in UFC history. That’s exactly what happened to Allan Nascimento at UFC Vegas 110, and it’s a story that’s as fascinating as it is controversial. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Nascimento credits none other than Charles Oliveira, the UFC’s most prolific submission master, for teaching him the Anaconda choke that secured his victory over 14-fight veteran Cody Durden in the second round. But is it fair for fighters to rely on last-minute locker room lessons, or should victories stand solely on months of dedicated training? Let’s dive in.
The night kicked off with Brazil’s Allan Nascimento delivering his 15th career win by submission, a testament to his skill and the influence of his high-profile teammate. In a post-fight interview, Nascimento openly praised Oliveira, saying, ‘Charles Oliveira taught me this choke. We trained it during warm-ups, and it worked perfectly.’ This raises a bold question: How much credit should Oliveira get for Nascimento’s win? While some might argue it’s a team effort, others could claim it diminishes the fighter’s individual achievement. What do you think?
The main event saw Steve Garcia dominate David Onama with a first-round knockout, solidifying his position as a rising contender in the 145-pound division. Meanwhile, in the co-headliner, Ante Delija’s celebration turned sour after an eye poke on Waldo Cortes-Acosta. Despite the controversy, Cortes-Acosta recovered and delivered a stunning knockout, proving resilience can trump momentary setbacks. And this is the part most people miss: Even in defeat, Delija’s story highlights the fine line between victory and defeat in the UFC.
Nascimento’s win streak now stands at four, with notable victories over Jafel Filho, Carlos Hernandez, and Jake Hadley. Though his submission over Durden was at a catchweight of 130 lbs, the Brazilian is poised to enter the UFC rankings next week. Boldly, he’s already called out former title challenger Steve Erceg, who recently snapped a three-fight losing streak. Is Nascimento biting off more than he can chew, or is this the perfect time to test his mettle against a seasoned contender?
As the dust settles on UFC Vegas 110, one thing is clear: the influence of legends like Oliveira can shape fights in unexpected ways. But here’s the real question: Does relying on a teammate’s expertise elevate a fighter’s game, or does it overshadow their individual journey? Share your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
