Sage Northcutt Scores Second UFC Win with Submission of Cody Pfister

It wasn't as easy as his first outing in the UFC, but 19-year-old phenom Sage Northcutt scored a win in his second outing all the same.

White discovered him on the regional fight scene. From the start, he received plenty of attention because, in an industry where anger and criticism is the norm, he stood out from the pack. He constantly smiled and was genuinely happy to be where he is.

His second fight was supposed to present a tougher test, but Northcutt was a heavy favorite going into the fight. Early on, however, it looked like the oddsmakers may have missed something as Northcutt was taken down early by opponent Cody Pfister, a gritty wrestler who had the skills to test Northcutt in a way that Trevino did not. Pfister kept Northcutt there for nearly the entirety of the first round before a curious standup by the referee sent the fighters back to their feet. It was a dubious decision from the official that will draw plenty of criticism, both in the moment and upon reflection.

Back on his feet, Northcutt used a takedown of his own to put Pfister on the canvas. He worked for a triangle choke, which he wasn't able to complete, and then took Pfister's back at the end of the round. Despite the late effort, it looked as though Pfister had won the first.

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In the second, Northcutt went for a takedown again, but Pfister was able to reverse it and get on top of Northcutt. But that was the mistake that cost Pfister the fight. Northcutt immediately secured a guillotine choke and, after wrapping his legs around Pfister's torso, forced Pfister to tap out.

After the fight, Northcutt immediately launched himself into the air for a somersault before being interviewed by Jon Anik.

"I'm just so thankful for Mr. White and Mr. Fertitta for allowing me to be here, to fight in the UFC," he said with a smile.

When asked when he would like to return to the Octagon, Northcutt gave the same answer he did back in October: as soon as possible.

It will be interesting to see who UFC matchmakers Joe Silva and Sean Shelby match Northcutt with next. Given that he's only 19-years old, there is no reason to rush him into a fight with anyone all that formidable. They should give him time all the time in the world to develop and sharpen his skills. 

Via UFC press release Northcutt shared some additional thoughts. 

“The Octagon was smaller than I expected, so it took some time for me to get used to it and find my spacing. I tried to be patient and wait for the submission to come to me. I never really have a game plan other than to finish my opponent as quickly as possible. Tonight it came in the second round and I’m very happy to come out on top. Training at Tri-Star was great. I will definitely go up there again. I’m looking forward to my next fight. I hope it comes in the next couple of months.”

Jeremy Botter covers mixed martial arts for Bleacher Report. Follow him on Twitter.