TUF 29 alum and recent LFA bantamweight champ Daniel Argueta finally made his UFC debut on Saturday at UFC Vegas 56.
The only downside, Argueta was forced to move up a weight class for a short-notice opportunity against the always dangerous Damon Jackson. “The Leech” had won two straight and was looking to make it three against the newcomer.
Jackson quickly got the body lock and planted Argueta on his backside as the action got underway. Jackson was right on the back of Argueta, living up to his nickname and putting the newcomer in a bad position. Argueta was doing a good job controlling a wrist and avoiding the rear-naked choke. With a little under a minute left Argueta turned towards Jackson and got top position and ended the round on top.
Early in round two Argueta drove in on a leg but Jackson defended and got on top. Not just on top but right on the back again for Jackson. He was on the back of Argueta for a while, just dominating from back position. Argueta would eventually turn toward Jackson again. As they got to their feet Argueta landed a flurry and ended the round with a takedown.
In the final round, Argueta was getting after it. He put Jackson on his back foot and even seemed to drop him for a brief moment. An uppercut and a few big elbows landed for Argueta putting Jackson in a lot of danger. Argueta landed at will on the feet but made the mistake of trying to jump on the back. That backfired, and Jackson wound up in the top position. Both guys were gassed and Argueta watched the fight slip away as he ended the fight just getting to his feet.
Make that 3️⃣ in a row for the LEECH!
[ #UFCVegas56 | Prelims continue LIVE on @ESPNPlus ] pic.twitter.com/rs4zaQAoJT
— UFC (@ufc) June 4, 2022
Official Result: Damon Jackson def. Dan Argueta by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
