UFC Fight Night 54: Bantamweight Contender Raphael Assuncao Continues To Impress
By Rick LaFitte
@RickLaFitte
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UFC bantamweight contender Raphael Assuncao took out his frustrations of being bypassed for a title shot on Bryan Caraway in their co-main event battle at Fight Night 54 in Halifax. He made it seven consecutive Octagon triumphs by earning a unanimous decision victory. Assuncao showcased a diversified attack utilizing effective punches, leg kicks and knees to maintain his current status as the hottest 135-pound competitor. All three judges gave him the nod by comfortable 30-27 margins.
The talented No. 4 ranked Brazilian was hoping to make a major statement by getting a finish, but found a very willing and game opponent in Caraway. “Kid Lightning” showcased a very strong chin in absorbing all of Assuncao’s best shots. Caraway possesses a dangerous ground game with 17 submission wins to his credit, but spent very little time on the mat against Assuncao. The couple of times that he was able to secure a takedown, Assuncao was quick to get to his feet and continue his stand-up dominance. As a result, Caraway saw his two-fight win streak end and will likely fall from his current top-10 status.
Assuncao’s title hopes took a major hit recently when former champion Dominick Cruz turned in a brilliant effort in his comeback bout at UFC 178. After nearly three years away, “The Dominator” destroyed Takeya Mizugaki in just 61 seconds. After the explosive performance, President Dana White confirmed that Cruz would get the next title shot at T.J. Dillashaw. That had to be terribly disappointing news for Assuncao, as he already owns a career win over the champion and was already snubbed by the promotion once.
Former champion Renan Barao received what many observers saw as an unwarranted immediate title rematch at UFC 177 after being dominated by Dillashaw at UFC 173. Barao would be forced out of that card in Sacramento due to health-related reasons stemming from a tough weight cut. Assuncao had to sit and watch as unheralded Joe Soto received an unlikely title fight in his Octagon debut against “The Viper.” Dillashaw would record a fifth round stoppage.
So now the big question is whether the UFC will finally reward Assuncao with the title shot that he deserves or if he will need yet another victory. Assuncao seems willing to wait for the Dillashaw-Cruz winner, but there could be another intriguing clash to consider. It would be a tough assignment, but Assuncao vs. Barao could be an exciting option to consider. It would definitely have plenty of sizzle at an event in Brazil. A victory over Barao would most certainly cement a title shot for Assuncao, while this potential matchup would be an excellent opportunity for “The Baron” to try and get his career back on track after the debacle at UFC 177. White has already indicated Barao won’t be fighting for the title when he does return.
No matter how things play out, Assuncao has proven that he’s more than ready for the best that the UFC’s 135-pound division has to offer. It’s time the organization took notice of that. He doesn’t have a cocky, brash personality and may not be a marquee name, but all he’s done lately is win fights. That should count for something.
Rick LaFitte is an MMA Writer for Rant Sports,
