Creating a memorable moment that he will never forget, Antonio Carlos Jr. landed an impressive rear-naked choke on Marthin Hamlet in the PFL Light Heavyweight Finals.
Inside the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Florida, Carlos Jr. would not let go of Hamlet when it was thought he would be slammed to the floor. The 31-year-old, who was cut by the UFC this past year, went 3-0 with one no-contest in the PFL. He went from unemployed to a champion and $1 million richer.
The fight started off with both trying to find an edge. Carlos Jr. would then resort to his ground game, managing to put Hamlet down, if only for a brief moment. As Hamlet got up, Carlos Jr. would not let go. Hamlet would attempt to swing him off against the cage. The whiplash and impact from the cage would have normally halted a comeback. Carlos Jr. had other plans in mind.
In a swift motion, he twisted around and put his arms tight around Hamlet's neck, forcing him to the floor. Hamlet had no choice but to tap.
#ANDNOW PFL LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION!!!! SHOEFACE GETS IT DONE IN THE 1ST ROUND!#PFLChampionship LIVE NOW
— PFL (@PFLMMA) October 27, 2021
---- ESPN+
-- https://t.co/WfOt9XBfzk pic.twitter.com/jsLyYhbAw2
Carlos Jr. started his career on a five-fight win streak. He then lost three straight to Ian Heinisch, Uriah Hall, and Brad Tavares. Let go by the UFC, Carlos Jr. would beat Tom Lawlor in his PFL debut via submission.
Hamlet is now 2-2 in his last four fights.
Check out the full results from the 2021 PFL Championship Finals card here.
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