Jim Miller stepped into the octagon for the 45th time at UFC 309 on Saturday, an absolutely mind-boggling number that again proved why “A-10” is the UFC’s Iron Man.
Opposite Miller on Saturday was fellow veteran Damon Jackson, on his second stint with the UFC and coming off a loss against Chepe Mariscal. Jackson was making a move up from featherweight in an attempt to rejuvenate his career.
The fight started with both men in open stance matchup. Jackson was landing nice combinations early, mixing head and body as targets and using teeps to keep Miller at bay. After spending some time in the clinch, Miller used a step-in elbow to slice Jackson right between the eyes. As Miller was starting to find the range for his left hand, Jackson shot for a takedown and Miller instinctively jumped on his patented guillotine and forced the tap out of Jackson. A short but still classic Jim Miller performance as A10 proves to still have gas left in the tank.
Following the loss, Jackson left his gloves in the cage, a gesture that is usually synonymous with retirement. Jon Anik mentioned on the broadcast that Jackson was offered an octagon interview, but declined.
Miller is way past title runs or even sniffing the rankings, but he’s still one of the UFC’s most interesting attractions as it is always a pleasure to see him compete. He could be matched up with anyone and people will always tune in to watch him fight; in his post-fight speech, he suggested he’s ready to chase 50 fights in the promotion.
Official Result: Jim Miller def. Damon Jackson by submission (guillotine choke), Round 1, 2:44
