This CRAZY FIGHT Had An EVEN CRAZIER Ending
Ariel “Tarzan” Sexton secured a rare dual-threat submission victory over Kota Shimoishi at ONE: PURSUIT OF POWER.
On July 13, 2018, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu specialist Ariel Sexton dismantled Japanese veteran Kota Shimoishi in a display of technical grappling. The lightweight bout showcased Sexton’s ability to manipulate an opponent’s defense, ending the contest just 44 seconds into the final round with a sequence that remains a hallmark of his career.
- Sexton, a black belt under Renzo Gracie, secured the finish by locking in a reverse triangle choke while simultaneously isolating Shimoishi’s arm to apply an Americana-style lock.
- The performance was recognized by Tapology as the #95 Best MMA Submission of 2018 and has since been featured in multiple ONE Championship highlight compilations, including lists for the promotion’s top 20 submissions.
The Grappling Chess Match
Sexton utilized his BJJ pedigree throughout the fight to constantly threaten Shimoishi on the canvas. Despite the Japanese veteran’s defensive efforts, Sexton dominated the engagement, coming dangerously close to securing a finish at the end of both the first and second rounds. On both occasions, Shimoishi was saved by the bell, but he could not replicate that resilience in the final frame.
Within the opening minute of the third round, Sexton found the opening he required. He transitioned into an inverted position, locking his legs to secure a reverse triangle. With Shimoishi effectively trapped, Sexton tightened the choke while extending the opponent’s arm to apply the secondary Americana pressure. The dual-threat approach left Shimoishi no option but to signal an immediate tap.
Sexton’s ability to combine a reverse triangle choke with an Americana-style lock effectively created a dual-threat submission that left his opponent with no alternative but to concede at 0:44 of the third round.
Technical Innovation in the Lightweight Ranks
The finish solidified Sexton’s standing as one of the most dangerous and creative submission artists in the boxing and MMA landscape. By forcing a double-point tap, he demonstrated a level of control and technical mastery that distinguished him from typical specialists in the lightweight division.
Sexton remains focused on securing a high-stakes lightweight title shot against champion Christian Lee, as he looks to climb back into the top five rankings after his recent setbacks in the division.

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