On July 16, 2022, at UFC on ABC 3 (also known as UFC Long Island), held at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, flyweight contenders Matt “Danger” Schnell and Su Mudaerji (often spelled Sumudaerji, nicknamed “The Tibetan Eagle”) delivered what many consider one of the most thrilling and chaotic bouts in UFC flyweight history.

The fight is frequently hailed as an “instant classic,” earning Fight of the Night honors and cementing its place in discussions of the greatest comebacks in MMA. Even years later, in 2025 UFC reflections, it’s remembered as Schnell’s signature moment—a dramatic rally that showcased unbreakable resilience.

The Build-Up

Schnell, an American veteran with a background in Legacy Fighting Alliance (where he was a former champion), entered the bout looking to rebound from a submission loss to Brandon Royval earlier that year. Mudaerji, the first UFC fighter of Tibetan ethnicity, was riding momentum from strong performances, including a quick knockout win in his previous outing.

Both men were known for their striking prowess and willingness to engage, setting the stage for fireworks in the 125-pound division.

Round-by-Round Breakdown

Round 1: The action started competitively, with both fighters exchanging sharp strikes. Mudaerji landed clean shots, but Schnell held his own, attempting a triangle choke late in the round that hinted at his grappling threat.

Round 2: This is where the fight exploded into legend. Mudaerji dominated early, rocking Schnell repeatedly with powerful punches and elbows. Schnell was wobbled badly multiple times—absorbing heavy damage that left many viewers and commentators believing the end was imminent. His chin and heart kept him standing through a barrage that seemed insurmountable.

Then, in a stunning reversal, Schnell clipped Mudaerji with a counter shot. He capitalized immediately, securing a takedown and mounting his opponent. From top position, Schnell unleashed vicious ground-and-pound elbows, opening a deep cut on Mudaerji’s head and turning the Octagon canvas red.

Mudaerji reversed to gain top control, but Schnell seamlessly transitioned into a triangle choke from the bottom. He locked it in tight, forcing Mudaerji to go unconscious without tapping—a technical submission.

Official Result: Matt Schnell def. Su Mudaerji via technical submission (triangle choke) at 4:24 of Round 2.

Immediate Reaction and Legacy

Commentators, including Daniel Cormier and Paul Felder, erupted in disbelief, with Felder calling it “one of the greatest comebacks we’ve ever seen.” Fighters like Dustin Poirier, Francis Ngannou, and Charles Oliveira praised the war on social media, labeling it “bloodsport” and an all-time flyweight thriller.

The bout earned both men $50,000 Fight of the Night bonuses, and UFC President Dana White promised Schnell extra compensation for the extraordinary performance.

In end-of-2022 awards, it was nominated for Fight of the Year and ranked highly for Submission of the Year. Schnell’s rally was a strong contender for Comeback of the Year, often listed among the top UFC comebacks of the year alongside others like Jiri Prochazka’s title win.

The fight’s highlights remain a staple in UFC promotional videos, titled “Matt Schnell vs Sumudaerji | Instant Classic,” and it’s frequently cited in discussions of the most entertaining flyweight wars ever.

Lasting Impact

For Schnell, this victory highlighted his durability and submission prowess—he now holds the second-most triangle choke submissions in UFC history. Though his career has seen ups and downs since (including a brief retirement signal in 2024 before returning to win in 2025), this remains his most iconic moment.

Mudaerji, despite the loss, gained recognition for his role in the spectacle. He has continued competing in the flyweight and bantamweight divisions.

Over three years later, as of early 2026, this bout endures as a testament to the unpredictability of MMA: a reminder that heart, timing, and opportunism can turn certain defeat into legendary triumph. It’s a fight that every MMA fan should watch—a true instant classic.

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