PFL World Tournament 6 – Vinicius Cenci vs Tony Caruso

Here’s a complete, detailed summary of the bout between Vinicius Cenci and Tony Caruso at the PFL World Tournament 6, held on June 20, 2025, at INTRUST Bank Arena in Wichita, Kansas:

Vinicius Cenci, a PFL Challenger alum and slick submission specialist, squared off against Australia’s Tony “Spartan” Caruso in a lightweight alternate bout early in the prelims. Cenci entered with a reputation for quick finishes—six of his seven wins came by submission, often in the first round.

The action began with both men trading low kicks. Caruso shot for a takedown, but Cenci thwarted it. Seizing the moment, Cenci locked in a tight guillotine choke while Caruso attempted to pass guard. Despite Caruso’s powerful slam attempts, Cenci held firm—and at 1:43 of Round 1, forced Caruso to tap to a triangle choke.

It was a textbook demonstration of Cenci’s grappling acumen: defensive wrestling, opportunistic transition to the neck, and unyielding submission pressure—even surviving a slam to secure the finish. That rapid triangle secured his spot as a lightweight alternate.

Result: Vinicius Cenci def. Tony Caruso via triangle choke submission, Round 1 at 1:43
Cenci’s record: Improved to 9–3, with a seventh pro submission win Caruso’s record: Dropped to 10–3 after his first-round loss.

Cenci’s sharp grappling and ability to capitalize on scramble moments made this a highlight-reel finish and further cement his status as a dangerous submission artist in the lightweight division.