Santiago Luna admits making mistake in win over Angel Pacheco at UFC Mexico

Santiago Luna recognizes the mistake that led to the end of his finishing streak. 

Luna (8-0) took on fellow newcomer Angel Pacheco (7-4) in a bantamweight tilt at UFC Mexico on Saturday at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City, Mexico. Being a former Mexican wrestling champion, Luna was expected to dominate Pacheco on the ground. But Pacheco showed impressive defense in getting back to his feet every time he was taken down. However, Luna outstruck Pacheco on the feet to earn a unanimous decision win. 

Luna’s win over Pacheco was the first time he saw the judges’ scorecards. Luna believes he could have kept his finishing streak intact if he hadn’t gone head hunting against Pacheco. The undefeated 21-year-old believes he instead should have targeted the body of a durable fighter like Pacheco.

Work the Body

  “I couldn’t keep up with my streak of finishes but I think I did quite a good performance for the people to enjoy… I don’t believe anyone has the privilege to have a show like that for 15 minutes,” Luna told the UFC. “I think it was 15 minutes that people were enjoying every second of. I really dedicate myself to the people and not be a boring fighter. And I think that’s why the UFC has been here… I would say, with people like Pacheco, motherf—-ers that’s strong and doesn’t go down, just aim for the body. That kills them. I think I was aiming too hard for the head for the knockout. But I do think the belly was a part that I was missing. So maybe emphasize a little more on that and get another finish.” 

"Once that bell rings, you've got to be locked in."

Santiago Luna talks a hard-fought effort at #UFCMexico, and his plans for the future

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