Bantamweight Da’Mon Blackshear might be best known for landing one of the few Twister submissions in UFC history, but he was also coming off a Performance of the Night victory over Cody Stamann when he took on another Cody, TUF finalist Cody Gibson, at UFC Vegas 104.
Blackshear’s last two fights had resulted in post-fight bonuses, while Gibson had won his last two, sans bonuses.
Gibson started out on fire threatening a takedown attempt while landing solid shots in the clinch. Gibson landed a big right hand over the top that forced Blackshear to cover up. After eating multiple punches to the body Blackshear was able to defend against a takedown near the fence. Blackshear worked back to the center of the octagon as both fighters landed low leg kicks. Gibson crashed forward looking for a takedown but Blackshear was threatening a guillotine choke. Blackshear reversed position and ended up in top control. After a slow start to the round, Blackshear looked tremendous with his submission attempts near the end of the opening five minutes. Round one was highly competitive, with wild grappling exchanges and fast pace action on the feet.
In the second, Blackshear pressed forward and landed a jab and kick to the body. Gibson tried to get the fight in the clinch and landed an elbow on the break. Two left hooks from Gibson got the attention of Blackshear on the inside. Gibson was doing his best work from the clinch landing a few shots to the head before securing a takedown. Blackshear again reversed position and ended up on top with three minutes left in the round. In complete control on the ground, Blackshear had a significant advantage in his jiu-jitsu game. Working to the crucifix position, Blackshear landed damaging elbows before grabbing the arm of Cody Gibson. Damon secured a Kimura on the ground and cranked the arm of Gibson forcing a tap out. The Kill Cliff FC product earned his 11th career win by submission, winning his second fight in the a row.
In his post fight interview with Michael Bisping, Blackshear said the he knew he would have a grappling advantage in the fight and was not surprised how the fight transpired. He did not specify on who he wants to face next, but the bantamweight division is stacked with potentially entertaining matchups for Blackshear on the horizon.
Official Result: Da’Mon Blackshear def. Cody Gibson by submission (kimura), Round 2, 4:09
