Toni “Dynamite” Tauru ruined Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio’s big night.
The former ONE Bantamweight World Title contender made quick work of the Filipino hero at ONE: AGE OF DOMINATION, and shocked the home nation crowd at Manila’s Mall Of Asia Arena by submitting him via rear-naked choke with 1:03 remaining in the first round.
With the victory, Tauru snaps a three-fight skid and can finally breathe a little easier.
“It was very emotional. I dropped a couple of tears after the fight in the cage because I have had a lot of pressure on myself because of those lost fights,” the Finnish mixed martial artist willingly admits. “I know I fight in the big leagues and somebody always has to lose, and I have had very close fights. But still, it is great stress to come in with a losing streak.”
Tauru dominated the contest from the opening bell. The Finnish bantamweight immediately shot in for the takedown, and although the man known as “Gravity” attempted to reverse the move, the former title challenger wisely grabbed his back and locked in his hooks.
Eustaquio desperately tried to defend the outsider’s every advance, but Tauru transitioned his legs into a figure-four around his opponent’s waist and patiently bided his time, waiting for the perfect opportunity to slide his arms underneath the Filipino’s chin.
Finally, “Dynamite” displayed his flexibility by raising his right leg, hooking the Filipino’s right arm and trapping it against his chest. With Eustaquio unable to properly guard his neck, Tauru masterfully locked in the rear naked choke and forced the tap.
“That fight went exactly how I saw it in my mind,” he says. “I was prepared to fight a whole there rounds, but if everything goes as I plan it, that is how it goes.”
“Dynamite” moves his record to 10-5-1. The Baguio City warrior drops to 8-5.
