LAS VEGAS, NV – APRIL 26: (LR) Opponents Jonathan Pearce and David Onama (Uganda) during the UFC Fight Night weigh-in at UFC APEX on April 26, 2024 in Las Vegas, NV. Confront. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Jonathan Pearce wasn’t too happy about how his UFC Vegas 91 opponent David Onama dropped weight on Friday, but he definitely carried that animosity into Saturday’s main card fight.
“JSP” tried to bring his opponent to submission throughout most of the first round, but had trouble finding range as he sliced through the cage. Onama had a speed advantage, which made matters worse, but Pierce’s punches were often unable to match.
Towards the end of the opening race, Pearce took a fight to the wheelhouse, slamming it into the ground and setting up a follower. But Onama was busy moving around, reversing and getting on top inside Pierce’s guard. After a few seconds and a scramble, they get to their feet and Pearce quickly goes for another takedown.
That takedown was reversed again, and Onama was on top again, ending the round in Pearce’s guard.
In the second round, the pair went to the ground early and Pearce just chain-wrestled and kept the pressure on. Backtake after backtake, submission attempt after submission attempt. Onama couldn’t get back on his feet until the end of the second half. At range, he landed jabs and low kicks that caught Pearce repeatedly.
Onama’s speed advantage was once again on display in the third round, as he darted in and out, putting JSP on the back foot. Pierce finally caught up to him after about 90 seconds, but Onama quickly turned away from the fence and ran away. Pearce whipped up an uppercut, and Onama fought back. His left hand connected constantly and snapped Pierce’s head back. That led to Pierce returning to wrestling. As they grounded out at the halfway mark, there was an immediate scramble and Onama quickly returned.
The next takedown attempt by Jonathan Pearce quickly stuffed care for David Onama’s sprawl. However, the next takedown was successful and Peace took the back, only for Onama to reverse. He’s got a minute left and he’s definitely a motivation killer. In the final moments, both men exchanged blows and swung for the fences, but the winner was clear and wanked.
Official result: David Onama def. Jonathan Pierce unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
