Brazilian grappler Caio Bittencourt needed just 19 seconds to secure a devastating kneebar submission against Ruslan Gabaraev at ACA 187, leaving spectators and commentators alike in awe.
The match began with customary intensity as both fighters touched gloves to signal the start of round two. Almost immediately, Gabaraev executed what initially appeared to be a well-timed takedown, seemingly gaining the advantage by bringing the contest to the ground – precisely where he wanted the action to unfold.
However, what looked like a strategic victory for Gabaraev quickly transformed into a nightmare. With remarkable composure and technical acumen, Bittencourt instantly transitioned from being taken down into an offensive position, rolling straight into a kneebar attempt.
“He rolls under that inside leg. It looks like he’s going for maybe a funk roll. Elevates with that butterfly. Goes into the knee bar and boom,” described the commentator, attempting to capture the lightning-fast sequence for viewers.
The transition was so smooth and the submission locked in so deeply that Gabaraev had no choice but to tap immediately, his face contorted in obvious pain. Medical staff promptly attended to the fallen fighter, who was visibly distressed following the submission.
Replay footage revealed the brilliance of Bittencourt’s technique. After being taken down, he seamlessly converted a defensive position into an attack, using butterfly elevation to create space before capturing Gabaraev’s leg and hyperextending the knee joint with textbook precision.
“His knee’s in deep, extended,” noted the commentary team as they reviewed the finish. “He tapped instantly.”
The devastating effectiveness of the submission left Gabaraev requiring extensive medical attention, with commentators noting, “with an injury like this, it’s definitely going to be a long timeout.”
Caio “Leão” Bittencourt (17-9-0) is a Pro MMA star out of Macapa, Amapa, Brazil. He’s been with ACA since 2023.
