Stevie Ray Submits Lewis Long with Signature Twister at PFL Europe 3

PFL Europe 3: Stevie Ray with a unique submission

Stevie Ray showcased his signature submission skills in the main event of PFL Europe 3, finishing Lewis Long with a modified Twister in front of a home crowd in Glasgow, Scotland. Ray, a veteran fighter known for his grappling expertise, executed the "Scottish Twister" to earn a first-round submission victory, possibly marking the final fight of his career.

Entering the bout on a three-fight losing streak, Ray had previously suffered losses to Olivier Aubin-Mercier, Natan Schulte, and Clay Collard in past PFL seasons. Despite these setbacks, Ray came into this fight determined to give his fans in Scotland a thrilling performance. In his matchup against Long, Ray once again demonstrated his elite jiu-jitsu, locking up the Twister from his back with just 36 seconds remaining in the opening round.

The submission win not only ended Ray’s losing skid but also added to his legacy as a submission specialist. Ray had previously used the same move to submit former UFC and WEC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis in 2022. Reflecting on his performance after the fight, Ray hinted that this might be his last appearance in the cage, saying, “Maybe one more [fight].”

Ray’s MMA career includes an impressive record of 26-13, with notable victories over UFC veterans such as Michael Johnson, Joe Lauzon, and Ross Pearson. He finished his UFC run with a 7-4 record and compiled a 3-4 mark in the PFL. Known as "Braveheart," Ray’s contributions to the sport, particularly his creative grappling, have left a lasting impression on MMA fans.

As Ray contemplates retirement, his submission win over Long is a fitting end to a career defined by his ability to catch opponents with slick, unorthodox submissions.