Ricky Simon and Montel Jackson had a spirited battle between former Contender Series fighters at UFC 227, with Simon continuing his success in the UFC.
Ricky Simon was one of the first fighters from Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series to win a fight in the UFC, which he did just this past April at UFC Atlantic City. At UFC 227 on Saturday night in Los Angeles, he faced a fighter much like himself in Montel Jackson: one that was hungry, coming off the Contender Series and looking to make his mark on the bantamweight division.
Simon vs. Jackson turned out to be a good showcase for the Contender Series. Both men showed tons of potential and although only one could win, they each displayed plenty of skill showing that there’s a future for some of the guys coming off the show. Much like the earlier seasons of the Ultimate Fighter.
Ricky Simon, rocking a hairstyle that would make Mike Pyle proud, marched forward the entire fight and never seemed to tire despite the relentless pace that Jackson set. Montel Jackson may have only began his MMA career 14 months ago, but he looked like a veteran of the octagon as well. Another great close bout on the prelims; it really showcased Simon’s wrestling. He was able to score repeated takedowns, but Jackson was no slouch in the grappling department either, even putting Simon face-down from the back.
STRONG Takedown to mount by @RickySimon135 💪#UFC227 pic.twitter.com/TIIEzf7v95
— UFC Aus/New Zealand (@UFC_AUSNZ) August 5, 2018
Simon’s pace and wrestling in the third round really sealed the deal for him in the end. Getting the back and looking for a choke and even getting mount really helped him stay one step ahead of Jackson for the victory. That marks the second octagon win for the young Ricky Simon, following his debut in Atlantic City. Overall, he’s now on a seven fight win streak.
Ricky Simon def. Montel Jackson by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
