No Tattoos Needed: Chris Duncan’s Slick Submission Ends Jordan Vucenic’s Night at UFC London

Remember when fighters used to bet tattoos on fight outcomes? Those days might be over after what we witnessed at UFC London. Chris Duncan just put on a clinic against Jordan Vucenic, securing a gorgeous second-round submission that had the O2 Arena erupting – and thankfully, no one’s walking away with unwanted ink on their backside.

The Scottish lightweight needed just over a minute in the second round to lock in a rear-naked choke that sent Vucenic tapping frantically. And trust me, I’ve seen a lot of submissions in my day, but this one was particularly sweet.

A Stunning Turnaround in London

After a competitive first round that saw both men having their moments, Duncan shifted gears in the second. He caught Vucenic with a well-timed takedown, immediately took his back, and slipped in the choke with the kind of technique that would make John Danaher nod in approval.

The victory improves Duncan’s UFC record to an impressive 3-1, firmly establishing him as one of the European scene’s most promising lightweights. For Vucenic, it’s back to the drawing board after a UFC debut that surely didn’t go as planned.

The Scottish Connection Grows Stronger

Duncan’s win adds to Scotland’s growing reputation as an MMA hotbed. Training out of the renowned Scottish Hit Squad, the same gym that produced UFC veteran Stevie Ray, Duncan is carrying the torch for Scottish MMA on the big stage.

“Scotland, that was for you!” Duncan shouted in his post-fight interview, setting off a thunderous roar from the UK crowd.

What’s Next for “The Problem”?

With this emphatic finish, Duncan positions himself for bigger opportunities in the UFC’s stacked lightweight division. During his post-fight interview, he made it clear he’s ready for whatever the UFC throws his way.

“I’m here to climb the rankings. Give me a name, give me a date, and I’ll be ready,” Duncan declared, the confidence evident in his voice.

The 30-year-old showed significant improvements in his grappling game – an aspect that will serve him well as he faces increasingly tougher competition.

UFC London Delivers Again

Duncan’s slick submission was just one highlight from another electric UFC London card. The O2 Arena has become something of a spiritual home for UK MMA, consistently delivering memorable moments and performances.

The atmosphere was electric throughout the night, with the British crowd showing once again why they’re considered among the most passionate in the sport. Even UFC commentator Michael Bisping couldn’t contain his excitement at the energy in the building.

Fan Reaction: Social Media Explodes

Twitter (X) and Instagram lit up immediately following Duncan’s finish, with fans and fighters alike praising the clinical nature of the submission:

• “That transition to the back was BUTTER smooth!” wrote one impressed viewer
• “Scottish fighters are built different. Duncan just proved it again,” commented another
• Even UFC veteran Dan Hardy chimed in: “Beautiful technique from Duncan. That’s high-level stuff.”

The Bigger Picture: European MMA on the Rise

Duncan’s performance is yet another indicator of the rising tide of European MMA talent. Between his success, Paddy Pimblett’s star power, and the emergence of fighters like Lerone Murphy, the European scene is as vibrant as ever.

The UFC’s commitment to regular events in the UK has provided the perfect platform for these fighters to showcase their skills on home soil – something that’s clearly paying dividends for both the promotion and the athletes.

Looking Ahead

I’m excited to see where Chris Duncan goes from here. With his blend of striking power and now-proven submission skills, he’s developing into a well-rounded threat in a division that demands exactly that.

One thing’s for certain – whoever faces him next better come prepared. The Scottish lightweight has shown he can end fights wherever they go, and that makes him a problem indeed.

What did you think of Duncan’s performance? Drop a comment below and let me know who you’d like to see him face next!

Source: UFC London footage