They key to success as a fighter starting out is both skill and marketability, and Jeisla Chaves’s backstory as a former ring girl turned mixed martial artist very much gives her that.
Chaves, 6-0 to start the night heading into UFC Vegas 118, took on Yuneisy Duben at the Meta Apex on Saturday, in flyweight action.
Duben was looking to bounce back from a loss in her own promotional debut; both fighters had joined the UFC via Dana White’s Contender Series.
The fight started with a couple leg kicks from Chaves. Duben caught a body kick but couldn’t find her range. That was evident in the striking early, as she had trouble finding her range. She timed Chaves coming in and got a strong bodylock takedown. Chaves easily got right back up and landed some good stuff off the break. Back at space, it was Chaves landing leg kicks and flurries as she circled away. Duben timed a leg kick with an overhand right. An ugly round one that likely favored Chaves as she did a bit more.
In round two, they crashed in the center early. Duben was the stronger girl, pushing Chaves against the cage. A lack of technique meant she couldn’t hold the position for too long. Chaves was looking to engage more, biting down on her mouthpiece and throwing. It didn’t really matter, though, as she eventually got a takedown. Chaves didn’t find the takedown easy at all but took the back quickly. She had the RNC that looked tight, but the angle was off. Duben was content to sit on her knees and protect her neck, waiting for the bell.
In the final round, it was likely Duben needed some sort of finish. She did land a nice one-two to start the round. Unfortunately for her, Chaves clinched up and was able to work in a takedown. Duben didn’t give up her back that time and got to her feet. Duben was gaining some confidence in her striking until Chaves ducked under for another takedown. Chaves did have the back for a moment before Duben could turn towards her. Chaves got up, but Duben dumped her back down. Duben scored some top time in half guard but did little damage, possibly letting the fight slip away.
Official Result: Jeisla Chaves def. Yuneisy Duben by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
