Contender Series winner Payton Talbott made his UFC debut on Saturday, facing off with Nick Aguirre in a bantamweight match-up nestled on the UFC Vegas 82 main card.
That might suggest they see a little star power in bantamweight Talbott, who certainly doesn’t lack in the personality department. Of course, it was what he could show in the cage that mattered.
He wound up showing plenty. Right away Aguirre shot in on the legs and got Talbott down pretty easily. Aguirre interlaced the legs and secured wrist control to get a better position on the mat. Talbott was working with his back against the cage but Aguirre was all over him. Aguirre was almost on the back but Talbott got back to his feet. With Aguirre still halfway on his back. Finally Aguirre ended up jumping on the back fully and got Talbott down. Tallbott was in a terrible position with Aguirre tight on his back. Back to his feet went Talbott but the round ended with Aguirre on his back.
Talbott was coming out first in round two with a right hand and a heavy kick to the body. Aguirre shot in for a takedown but was too far out and Talboot defended. Talbott was getting in his grove. Aguirre ended up pulling guard and letting Talbott on top. Talbott did good work there but wound up letting Aguirre back up. Aguirre timed a takedown entry very well and ended up getting the takedown. Like in round one, Talbott got back up but with Aguirre on his back. Aguirre was too high though and Talbott got top position. Aguirre was moving well off his back but Talbott did some damage right before the bell.
In the final round it was likely tied at one round a piece. Talbott was pressuring Aguirre with punches forcing Aguirre to shoot. Talbott defended and turned towards Aguirre getting into full mount. He unloaded with ground and pound and Aguirre gave up his back. It was the striker in Talbott that locked up the RNC and the grappler Aguirre tapped.
Official Result: Payton Talbott def. Nick Aguirre by submission (rear-naked choke), Round 2, 0:58
