In a riveting UFC Fight Night headliner, Sergei Spivac delivered an impeccable performance by submitting Marcin Tybura in under two minutes, avenging his previous defeat in February 2020. Spivac, who had lost to Tybura via unanimous decision in their previous encounter, showed significant improvement and tactical superiority in this bout.
Spivac's victory was highlighted by his use of a textbook armbar, a move that caught Tybura off guard and forced him into a verbal submission. This outcome not only showcased Spivac’s technical prowess but also marked the first armbar submission in the UFC heavyweight division since Fabricio Werdum's victory over Alexander Gustafsson four years ago.
This win propels Spivac's professional record to an impressive 17-5. Despite experiencing losses to Ciryl Gane and Tom Aspinall in the past three years, Spivac’s recent victory cements his position as a notable contender in the heavyweight division. This latest accomplishment is anticipated to elevate him to the No. 8 spot in the official UFC heavyweight rankings, surpassing Tybura.
After the fight, Spivac revealed that his preparation was far from ideal due to injury-related setbacks. He shared, “I trained this a lot. To be honest, I was quite nervous because I couldn't train for the last few weeks due to injury.” Despite these challenges, Spivac demonstrated remarkable resolve and execution when it mattered most.
Tybura, who came into this bout with a professional record of 25-9, has been a formidable force in the heavyweight division. Prior to this fight, Tybura boasted an 8-2 run, with his most recent victory being a first-round submission over Tai Tuivasa. This loss to Spivac marks a hiccup in an otherwise impressive career.
Spivac’s declaration after the fight, “That was his time and this is my time,” reflects his mindset and the journey he has undertaken to reach this level. His win not only avenges his previous defeat but also positions him as a serious contender in the heavyweight rankings.
The bout serves as a significant milestone in Spivac's career, highlighting his growth and determination. The submission win, achieved in record time, underscores his technical abilities and readiness to rise in the rankings. For Tybura, it’s a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sport and the constant challenge of staying at the top.
As Sergei Spivac looks ahead, his victory over a seasoned opponent like Tybura is bound to boost his confidence and establish him further in the heavyweight division. For fans and analysts alike, this fight will be remembered for its swift execution and the reminder of why MMA remains one of the most dynamic and unpredictable sports.