2023 Contender Series winner James Llontop made his octagon debut at UFC Vegas 91 on Saturday, taking on a fellow newcomer in Chris Padilla.
Padilla was jumping into the lightweight match-up after both Lando Vannata and Gabe Green had been forced off the card.
The bell sounded to start the fight and both men were feeling each other out. Llontop was landing some kicks but Padilla did time a nice double leg. The position he wanted to be in didn’t last long as Llontop got right back up to his feet. Padilla meanwhile wasn’t checking the leg kicks, as UFC broadcaster Dom Cruz pointed out on Saturday’s broadcast. Llontop kept Padilla guessing with the feints but Padilla did time another takedown. Padilla just wasn’t able to keep Llontop down as he bounced right back up. Llontop continued to land the leg kick, especially to the inside leg. Llontop rushed in with his hands and Padilla timed another takedown.
That time Chris Padilla scrambled to the back and right away had the rear-naked choke in tight, and it was over! Padilla with the win in his promotional debut, in what has to be considered something of an upset.
Official Result: Chris Padilla def. James Llontop by submission (rear-naked choke), Round 1, 4:33
