Sherdog’s Top 10: Pride Fights

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10. Kazushi Sakuraba vs. Carlos Newton
Pride 3
June 24, 1998 | Tokyo

A grappling fan’s dream, the Sakuraba-Newton matchup thrilled those who love the ground game. For 15-plus minutes, the Japanese legend and Canadian submission wizard took turns putting each other in precarious situations. Whether it was one on the other’s back, in guard, in side control or even trading leather on the feet, Sakuraba and Newton dazzled the tens of thousands in attendance at Nippon Budokan.

Five minutes into the second round, Sakuraba turtled with Newton hovering over him trying to secure his hooks. Newton made the mistake of leaving his right foot a little too exposed, and Sakuraba snatched it and front-rolled. Newton defended well, but Sakuraba quickly transitioned to the future UFC champion’s left foot and locked up the kneebar, forcing the tap 5:19 into round two.

Number 9 » Jackson vs. Arona