UFC light-heavyweight contender Jimmy Crute has won his first fight in 1,737 days after submitting Marcin Prachnio at UFC 318.
The 29-year-old has endured a difficult run, having two draws in close fights and multiple injuries causing significant layoffs.
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In his post-fight press conference, the Australian owned up to the pressure he was feeling leading into the bout.
"This week was a rollercoaster for sure," he said.
"The nerves were up and down.
"Getting a victory does mean a lot because I put so much work into this."
After a brief scramble on the mat, Crute secured the armbar which forced his opponent to tap in defeat.
"The armbar used to be my move, I used to hit everyone with the armbar earlier in my career," he said.
"I sort’ve went away from it because you lose position, but he gave it to me and I went ‘thank-you.’
"Soon as I got it I was like, ‘he’s not going to tap, I’m going to have to do some damage here.’"
The emotional victory seems to have reignited Crute's ambition, making a call-out of Dustin Jacoby for a scrap later this year.
"I just think it’s a good fight for both of us. It’s a good test for both of us," he said.
"I know that’s not an easy fight, he’s a hell of a crafty dude."
Crute is now setting his sights on the belt, currently held by Russian mauler Magomed Ankalaev.
"I see a world title in my picture for the first time in my career."
The UFC recently announced their plans to host a fight night card in Perth this September, which would be a great opportunity for Crute to begin building some momentum towards the title.