UFC: Takashi Sato shrugs off coronavirus drama with 48-second TKO of late replacement Jason Witt
- Sanford MMA fighter Sato back in win column with first-round finish over late-replacement Witt
- Sato says ‘no problem’ despite cornerman of original opponent Brahimaj testing positive for Covid-19 earlier in the week
Japanese welterweight prospect Takashi Sato made the most of being bumped up to the main card after securing a stunning 48-second TKO at UFC Vegas 4 on Saturday.
The 30-year-old Sato (16-3), whose original opponent Ramiz Brahimaj was removed from the card due to his cornerman testing positive for Covid-19 during fight week, landed a heavy right hand to drop late replacement Jason Witt (17-6) in the first round.
“Ten” Sato then waited patiently for the right moment to finish the 33-year-old American with a series of hammer punches.
“I feel good so I had great training with the best coaches and teammates at Sanford MMA every day. I’m happy to win,” said the Tokyo-born Sato, who trains alongside elite UFC welterweights Kamaru Usman and Gilbert Burns.
“Actually, I was looking for a KO win and was able to keep my distance and do something from my fight camp, so I’m glad I could use it for the great result today,” he said, adding that the late replacement drama was “no problem”.