Vitor Petrino and Dustin Jacoby at UFC Tampa’s ceremonial weigh-in at Amalie Arena, December 13, 2024 Credit: Jay Anderson/Cageside Press
Light heavyweights Vitor Petrino and Dustin Jacoby were looking to get back in the win column at UFC Tampa on Saturday.
However, the main cardfight had a completely different feel regarding Jacoby. While Petrino was coming off the first loss of his career (a submission at the hands of Anthony Smith), Jacoby had lost two straight and four of his last five fights.
Jacoby used his jab early in the first to distance himself from the powerful Petrino, measuring his distance and staying on the outside. Petrino viciously advanced, throwing powerful hooks. Midway through the round, Petrino attempted a takedown, but Jacoby successfully defended him. It was difficult for Petrino to score in the first five minutes with a flurry of big shots, but Jacoby was content to stay on the outside and utilize his jab and low leg kicks within range.
The second round started with Petrino supporting Jacoby to the fence and unloading a big right hand. Jacoby defended well and was able to get around to the center of the cage. Blood was oozing from Jacoby’s nose three minutes into the round. Petrino landed a left hook followed by a hard straight right that caught Jacoby’s attention. Petrino attempted a Superman punch near the end of the round, with each fighter landing 23 blows in the first 10 minutes.
However, the Tampa crowd was unimpressed with what they saw, as boos rang out after the bell for the second round. In the third, Petrino landed a nice leg kick and attempted a takedown, but missed. Ringside commentator and coach Din Thomas said, “He’s having a hard time pulling the trigger,” and Jacoby seemed hesitant at times. Petrino secured a bodylock and briefly dragged Jacoby to the ground. Then, out of nowhere, Jacoby hit a beautiful straight right that sent Petrino to the floor, unconscious. After a mostly uneventful fight, Jacoby thrilled the Tampa crowd and energized them with a highlight-reel knockout.
This was a big win for Jacoby, who had lost four of his last five entering this contest. Jacoby then ran up to Dana White and demanded a performance bonus after his incredible knockout.
Official Results: Dustin Jacoby def. Vitor Petrino 3R KO, 3:44
