video Winning MMA fighter taps out in concern over opponent

By Kim Tong-hyung

Amateur mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Mike Pantangco displayed impressive sportsmanship when he tapped out in a fight he was winning with ease.

Pantangco had been punishing an out-matched Jeremy Rasner during their Prison City Fight League bout. After delivering a flurry of blows throughout the first round, Pantangco suddenly backed off, kneeled down and tapped out on the mat.

In statements given to Axs TV, Pantangco said he began to feel sympathy for his opponent and opted out of the fight to avoid hurting Rasner seriously.

“I just feel that there's no point in fighting him because he didn't train against me and I didn't train for him and I just feel like we're amateur fighters. We don't get money. We don't get paid,’’ said Pantangco.