In one of the most shocking upsets of the year, Carlos Vera defied all odds to submit Josias Musasa in the first round of their bantamweight bout at UFC Vegas 104. Entering the fight as a significant underdog with odds of +500, Vera’s victory was nothing short of miraculous. The Ecuadorian fighter not only silenced critics but also pocketed a substantial payday, as his win was priced at an astonishing +1800 on the sportsbooks for a first-round finish.
Headkick to RNC!! That was INSANE! Carlos Vera! #UFCVegas104 pic.twitter.com/2f0ozQBSTn
— Haduucken (@Haduuuucken) March 15, 2025
Vera’s journey to this moment has been marked by perseverance and determination. Despite losing his UFC debut to Rinya Nakamura via unanimous decision, Vera showed no signs of discouragement. Instead, he used the experience to refine his skills and prepare for his next challenge. Against Musasa, a formidable knockout artist with a reputation for devastating finishes, Vera faced his toughest test yet.
The fight itself was a masterclass in strategy and execution. Vera, known for his grappling prowess, initially looked to take the fight to the ground. However, it was a perfectly timed head kick that changed the course of the bout. Musasa, caught off guard by the kick, knocked him down, giving Vera the opportunity to pounce. Seizing the moment, Vera quickly transitioned to the back sinking in the rear-naked choke, forcing Musasa to tap out in the first round.
Carlos Vera showed he belongs in the UFC
The victory over Musasa is a testament to Vera’s adaptability and skillset. Despite being the less favored fighter, Vera exploited Musasa’s aggression and rawness to secure the win. Musasa, who had earned his UFC debut via Dana White’s Contender Series, was expected to use his knockout power to overwhelm Vera. However, Vera’s experience and technical grappling skills proved too much for the young contender.
Musasa’s loss serves as a reminder that while athleticism and power are crucial in MMA, they are not the only factors that determine success. Vera’s ability to mix up his strikes and seamlessly transition into grappling positions caught Musasa off guard, highlighting the importance of well-rounded skills in the Octagon.
For Vera, this win is a career-defining moment. Not only does it mark his first UFC victory, but it also positions him as a formidable opponent in the bantamweight division. His performance will undoubtedly attract attention from fans and promoters alike, potentially setting him up for more significant matchups in the future.
The odds for this fight were heavily skewed in favor of Musasa, with many predicting a knockout victory for the young prospect. However, Vera’s upset demonstrates that in MMA, anything can happen. The +1800 odds for a first-round finish by Vera were considered a long shot, but the Ecuadorian fighter proved that even the most unlikely outcomes can become reality with the right combination of skill and strategy.
Carlos Vera’s stunning upset over Josias Musasa at UFC Vegas 104 will be remembered as one of the biggest surprises of the year. Vera’s ability to execute a flawless game plan and capitalize on Musasa’s aggression has earned him a place in the spotlight. As he moves forward in his career, Vera will undoubtedly face new challenges, but his recent victory serves as a powerful reminder of his potential and resilience in the face of adversity. With this win, Vera has not only silenced his critics but has also inspired a new wave of believers in his abilities as a top-tier MMA fighter.
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