Cosce’s ring introduction.

Local MMA pro Orion Cosce edged out his opponent Mike “Blood Diamond” Mathetha for his first official UFC win on Saturday at UFC 277 in Dallas.

The matchup between Cosce and Mathetha could have been scratched for a third time after Cosce weighed-in 1.5 pound over the agreed upon fighting weight. However, Mathetha accepted to take the fight as a catchweight bout.

“I apologize for missing weight,” Cosce told UFC commentator Joe Rogan after the fight. “You guys deserve better and I promise to get better in the future.”

Cosce took an early lead with several successful take-downs in the first round. But Mathetha made a comeback in the second round by landing several good punches and blows to the body. 

Cosce was able to stay on his feet in the middle of the second round after both fighters connected with surprise back-fists, drawing cheers and laughs from the crowd. Cosce could also be seen smiling in the ring after the simultaneous strikes.

“I have a tendency to smile when someone lands something,” Cosce told the Outpost. “It’s a habit of mine, but it also means I enjoy the competition.”

After an encouraging corner speech from his brother and fellow UFC fighter Louis Cosce, Orion Cosce finished the fight with a strong third round, taking down Mathetha several times before the final horn.

With the fight going the distance, all three judges voted 29-28 in favor of Cosce.

“Too many words to describe the feeling,” Cosce said. “I’m just grateful for all the love and support I have. It feels great to win and I look forward to continuing the win streak.”

Cosce now has a professional record of 8-1.

###

PREVIOUSLY:

Cosce’s post-fight interview.