Iaquinta shows toughness in loss

(Brooklyn, NY., April 10, 2018) – In what capped off one of the craziest weeks in MMA history, Long Island’s Al Iaquinta faced off against Khabib Nurmagomedov for the lightweight championship at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Saturday.

After Tony Ferguson pulled out due to a knee injury and his replacement, Max Holloway, could not make weight, Wantagh’s Iaquinta agreed to the fight against the unbeaten Nurmagomedov just one day before they stepped into the Octagon for the main event and world title.

Iaquinta (13-4-1), a large underdog showed heart and toughness as he went the full five rounds, but ultimately lost 50-44, 50-43, 50-43. With a few 10-8 rounds judged in the fight, Iaquinta fought his way through submission attempts and an aggressive Nurmagomedov, who now moves to 26-0, and is the first lightweight champion since Conor McGregor.

Iaquinta did fight like he had nothing to lose, as he gave it his all and even stopped nine of 15 takedowns from Nurmagomedov, who is considered one of the best grapplers in the sport. Nurmagomedov outstruck Iaquinta 172-43, going on to claim his first title.

Even though Iaquinta lost, his coach, Ray Longo, was as proud as ever after a loss. “Although we lost," Longo said. "I’ve never been in this position after a loss and this proud of a performance. He had his moments. He showed the heart and qualities in a fighter that can’t be taught.”

Iaquinta might have lost the fight, but he garnered the respect from fans, fighters and all that watched. His loss snapped a five-fight winning streak.

MMA Long Island Magazine is published by MMA New York Media Corporation. For more information please visit www.mmalongislandmagazine.com or call (516) 318-2418.

Photo credit: Newsday