UFC Denver video recap: Cerrone makes history with first round submission win over Perry

The last time Donald Cerrone fought in his hometown of Denver, Colorado, he was dealing with a second-round TKO loss to Jorge Masvidal, his first at 170 pounds. On Saturday night, “Cowboy” rendered the exact opposite result, while making history at the same time in his first-round submission victory over Mike Perry.

What was the high point of the fight?

Cerrone looked sharper on the feet in this fight, landing crisp shots and dictating the pace. Perry was able to establish some control when he got the fight to the ground, but Cerrone’s experience and grappling prowess eventually took over.

It was Cerrone’s skill fighting off of his back that helped him seal the win, setting things up with a pendulum attack from guard, then finishing the fight with a belly down armbar.

UFC Denver marks Cerrone’s 15^th finish and 21^st victory, both of which are record breakers in the UFC.

Where do these two go from here?

A win for Perry would’ve warranted him a fight against a top-ten fighter, but this loss does send him a few steps back. I still think he is worthy of a top 15 fighter, someone like Gunnar Nelson, perhaps.

Cerrone has been vocal about dropping back down to lightweight, which he reiterated during his Octagon interview with Paul Felder. I say put him in there against either Justin Gaethje or Edson Barboza for his return to 155 pounds.

Watch this now, later, or never?

If you’re a “Cowboy” fan, this would be a fun fight to watch now.