While Daniel Rodriguez had expected to face Abubakar Nurmagomedov at UFC Vegas 31, the welterweight wound up with a promotional newcomer instead. Such is the fight game, but the opportunity for Preston Parsons to make a big first impression was evident, especially after Kris Moutinho had stolen a bit of the spotlight last weekend in his own short-notice debut.
Unfortunately for Parsons, there was no Moutinho-like performance on Saturday.
Parsons closed the distance right away on a single leg takedown attempt. He lifted Rodriguez up, but Rogriguez stayed upright. Some heavy kicks from Rodriguez on the outside followed, forcing Parsons to shoot, but no dice. With no takedown to be found, the pair instead exchanged fire on the feet. Both guys were landing well but Rodriguez landed a punch to the eye of Parsons and from there he was in trouble. Parsons responded with takedown attempts but couldn’t get Rodriguez down. Parsons tried to fire back but more left hands from Rodriguez sent Parsons down, and he curled up. He wasn’t defending and ref Mike Beltran moved in and stopped the fight.
WOW! D-Rod wasting no time with a RD 1 KO! 😤#UFCVegas31 pic.twitter.com/5iohb4dFii
— UFC (@ufc) July 18, 2021
“D-Rod” has now won two in a row, and is 5-1 overall in the UFC since joining the roster last year.
Official Result: Daniel Rodriguez def. Preston Parsons by TKO, Round 1, 3:47
