Former Muay Thai champion Tainara Lisboa is outclassed by Canadian newcomer in a bitter fight at UFC Vancouver.

Tainara Lisbon is surpassed by Canadian debutant on a bitter night at UFC Vancouver. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFC News

O UFC Vancouver didn't start well for Brazil. The country's first representative on the card, in the very first fight, Tainara Lisbon couldn't handle the pressure of the newcomer Melissa Croden and lost by technical knockout in the third round. The fight was valid for the bantamweight division (up to 61,2 kg).

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After a serious knee injury, Tainara suffered a serious knee injury and, since then, has been unable to produce the strong performances that made her a Muay Thai world champion. Her career currently boasts seven wins and four losses.

Croden, meanwhile, boasts a record of seven wins and two losses. After a stint in the LFA, the Canadian arrives in the organization on the right foot.

Tainara Lisboa starts well, but succumbs to the Canadian's overwhelming debut at UFC Vancouver

Tainara started out strategically. She traded blows in the exchange and went for the clinch against the fence. On the way out, she threw an elbow that hit her opponent in the face. Croden, however, was smart and reversed the situation, only to see Lisboa land another good knee. Standing, Melissa landed a good right hand that made the Santos fighter slow down and wobble. She recovered and grew stronger by the end of the first round, while her opponent was already suffering from a nosebleed.

The fight continued well into the second round. Tainara, once again, pinned Melissa to the fence after a high kick and held off the Canadian in takedown attempts. Croden, however, defended herself, got back to her feet, and it was her turn to land punches from above and against the fence. The Brazilian felt it, swayed, and tried to escape on her feet. From above, the Canadian tried to finish, but the Brazilian blocked her with an armbar attempt and held on until the end.

Having recovered, Tainara resumed grappling. She took the takedown, but saw Melissa defend, spin, and get back to her feet. The Brazilian persisted, but was repelled by her rival, who took advantage of the opening and landed on top of her on the ground. Fighting at home and with the support of the crowd, Croden punished her repeatedly with ground and pound, coming close to a knockout. Lisboa was very dizzy and couldn't handle the pressure.