UFC Belgrade: Stephanie Luciano Spoils Marina Spasic’s Octagon Debut With Slick Submission In Round 1
Stephanie Luciano silenced the Belgrade crowd with another clinical finish.
The Brazilian flyweight spoiled Marina Spasic’s anticipated debut, submitting the hometown favorite with a first-round rear-naked choke to kick off UFC Belgrade in emphatic fashion.
Spasic looked sharp early, confidently taking the center of the Octagon and opening with crisp combinations while feeding off the energy of the Serbian fans. “Rondinha” stayed composed through the early pressure, gradually finding her rhythm with straight punches, calf kicks, and well-timed counters that slowed the newcomer’s momentum.
As the striking exchanges became more competitive, Luciano spotted her opening. She changed levels for a perfectly timed takedown before immediately advancing to Spasic’s back. With little room to escape, the Brazilian locked in a tight rear-naked choke that forced the tap at the 3:30 mark of the opening round, drawing boos from the partisan crowd.
The victory at UFC Belgrade marked “Rondinha’s” second consecutive submission win and extended her winning streak to two fights. The 26-year-old improved her professional record to 8-2-1 while moving to 3-1 inside the UFC, continuing to establish herself as a rising contender in the women’s flyweight division.
