November 2024 proved to be an exhilarating month for mixed martial arts (MMA), with an array of talented fighters showcasing their skills in spectacular fashion. Among the many bouts that took place, several athletes stood out with impressive submission victories. This analysis will delve into the nominees for submission of the month, emphasizing the techniques used, the implications of these victories, and their importance in advancing the fighters’ careers.
Youssef Zalal: A Stellar Return
One of the standout performances of November came from Youssef Zalal, a name that had already made waves in the UFC. In his bout against Jack Shore, Zalal secured a victory that solidified his return to the sport after a brief hiatus. The fight began with an explosive moment when Zalal connected with a devastating standing knee that sent Shore crashing to the canvas. Following this pivotal strike, Zalal showcased his grappling prowess, transitioning smoothly into an arm-triangle choke, forcing Shore to tap at just 59 seconds into Round 2. This victory marked Zalal’s third win in his UFC career and demonstrated that he is not to be overlooked as a serious contender in the division.
Next on the list is Jasmine Jasudavicius, who continued to elevate her stock in the women’s flyweight division with a remarkable performance against Ariane da Silva. Jasudavicius executed a well-timed D’Arce choke in Round 3, displaying her ability to maintain dominance on the ground after nearly finishing da Silva earlier in the fight. Her victory not only highlighted her technical skills but also reinforced her status as a fighter to watch in 2024. With this win, Jasudavicius keeps her perfect run for the year intact and positions herself closer to a potential title shot in her division.
While he may have gray hair signaling his experience in the octagon, Jim Miller’s performance against Damon Jackson was a reminder that age is just a number in the sport of MMA. Miller executed a swift guillotine choke, securing a submission victory at 2:44 of Round 1. This win marked Miller’s 27th in the UFC, setting him apart as one of the promotion’s most successful fighters in history. However, the aftermath of his victory saw Jackson leave his gloves in the cage, possibly signaling his retirement from the sport. Miller’s continued ability to compete at such a high level speaks volumes about his dedication and skills, making it clear that he remains a formidable opponent despite his lengthy career.
Denis Goltsov made headlines not just for his skills but also for the dramatic circumstances surrounding his championship fight against Oleg Popov. After facing an early takedown, Goltsov swiftly regained control, employing a triangle choke that led to a technical submission at 2:55 of Round 1. The win was monumental, as it not only earned Goltsov the PFL heavyweight championship but also snapped Popov’s impressive 17-fight winning streak. This victory underscored Goltsov’s ability to combine resilience with technical skill, solidifying his status among elite heavyweight fighters.
Rounding out our nominees is Gabriella Fernandes, who shocked fans with her performance against Wang Cong. Competing as a significant underdog, Fernandes showcased her striking capability with a powerful left hand that knocked Cong to the ground. Seizing the opportunity, she capitalized on her opponent’s moment of vulnerability and secured a rear-naked choke at 3:49 of Round 2. This decisive victory not only marked her second consecutive win but also disrupted Cong’s momentum as one of the sport’s rising prospects. Fernandes’ performance is a testament to her determination and skill within a fiercely competitive field.
November 2024 was undoubtedly a month that highlighted the evolving nature of MMA. Each fighter showcased their unique skill set, demonstrating that technical prowess and strategic execution remain at the forefront of this sport. Whether it was an experienced veteran like Jim Miller or an underdog like Gabriella Fernandes, the performances within the cage illustrated the unpredictable and thrilling nature of MMA. As fans reflect on these bouts, it becomes clear that the pathway to victory often lies in a fighter’s ability to adapt and capitalize on fleeting opportunities. The future holds much promise for each of these competitors as they continue their journeys in the highly competitive world of mixed martial arts.