Ortega wins in Valley UFC event

The Central Valley’s first UFC event came to a dramatic close after Brian Ortega executed a guillotine submission of UFC-veteran Cub Swanson in the second round to extend his undefeated record to 13-0 at the Save Mart Center.

After one of the biggest fights of Ortega’s career, he attributed the positive atmosphere around his camp as a factor in his performance October 9.

“The whole week, it was just a good vibe,” Ortega said. “I could tell I was the only fighter left in the lobby. Everyone was sleeping and worrying about the fight while was in there playing dominoes and having fun. We hung out till about two in the morning. I just felt relaxed and really calm, it felt like I was at home.”

Ortega wasn’t the only local fighter to get his chance.

One of the more exciting fights of the evening belonged to Lemoore-native Alex Perez. After getting his UFC shot through Dana White’s Contender series, he made quick work of his opponent Carls John De Tomas.

“This has to be up there, you know,” Perez said on how important the victory was. “I got picked up by the crowd a couple times by a couple groups of my friends, so it was just amazing. I was destined to be here, I got signed and then the show was in Fresno. It couldn’t be any better.”

Although Swanson fought hard throughout, Ortega’s submission game was too strong. Ortega wrapped his body around Swanson in an anaconda-like squeeze. As he was fighting to submit Swanson, Ortega let go of his opponent’s body and in a flash repositioned his hands and lower body to completely engulf Swanson in a Guillotine choke.

It was only a matter of time before Swanson ran out of breath, ending his chance at a title shot in the process.

On the other hand, Ortega showed the UFC community that he’s ready for his shot at the title.

“This kid is obviously the future,” UFC President Dana White said. “I have never seen a guy in Guillotine choke like that. He lets go, repositions his hand, then gets the choke. An Incredible performance that definitely puts this kid on the map.”