Joanderson Brito secured a submission victory over Jordan Leavitt at UFC Vegas 118, according to MMA Sucka. The fight took place on June 6, 2026, at the Meta Apex, marking Brito’s first appearance of the year in the Octagon.
What happened
Joanderson Brito faced Jordan Leavitt during the undercard of UFC Vegas 118, eager to build momentum after a victory in December. The matchup, which was set for up to three five-minute rounds at featherweight, ended quickly. Brito executed a front choke with less than a minute remaining in the opening round, forcing Leavitt to tap out.
After the fight, Brito celebrated by emulating Derrick Lewis’ iconic moment from UFC 229, briefly dropping his pants. He expressed his delight, saying, “Honestly, it’s pretty hard for me to say why… I’m just super happy. It’s also my 10th fight in the UFC.”
Why it matters
Brito’s victory enhances his status in the UFC following a challenging previous fight. The win could signify a turning point in his career, potentially positioning him for higher-profile competitions moving forward. Furthermore, his enthusiastic celebration showcases the emotional investment fighters have in their performances.
Background
On December 10, 2025, Brito achieved a unanimous decision victory against Issac Thomson in his last appearance. That fight was streamed on ESPN+ and marked a significant moment in his career. Leavitt, meanwhile, entered the bout intending to extend his winning streak after a unanimous decision win over Yadier del Valle in February 2026.
What’s next
Brito is expected to face a ranked opponent in his next fight, with the details yet to be announced by the UFC.
