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In her debut at 2024 PFL 1, former UFC title challenger Taila Santos showcased her skills and determination, securing a quick victory over Ilara Joanne with a rear-naked choke in the first round.
The fight, which took place on the event's prelims at Boeing Center in San Antonio, was a significant addition for PFL, as Santos' impressive performance added excitement to the flyweight division. Santos' victory came at 3:57 of Round 1, earning her six valuable points in the regular season standings.
Santos, with a record of 20-3, bounced back from a two-fight skid in the UFC, where she faced tough opponents like Valentina Shevchenko and Erin Blanchfield. Her departure from the UFC surprised many, considering her recent near-successful title challenge.
On the other hand, Joanne (11-9) faced a tough situation stepping in as a short-notice replacement for Denise Kielholtz, who withdrew just days before the fight. The loss adds to Joanne's current three-fight skid, highlighting the challenges of last-minute changes in the fight game.
Santos' quick victory and impressive debut in PFL set a positive tone for her future in the promotion, showcasing her skills and determination to make an impact in the flyweight division.