A minute and a half into the first round, the dynamic of the fight was becoming increasingly clear.
Damon was outstriking Landon on the feet, his precision and timing leaving little room for Landon to mount any effective offense.
Jabs snapped forward like lightning, hooks and low kicks kept Landon's movement restricted, and Damon's footwork ensured he stayed just out of reach.
Every attempt by Landon to close the distance was met with calculated resistance.
And like many grapplers who find themselves outclassed in the striking department, Landon began to gravitate toward his domain, the ground.
He feinted forward, level-changing slightly, and shot for his first takedown.
But Damon saw it coming.
He sprawled hard, stuffing the attempt with near-perfect timing, then pivoted away before Landon could chain into a secondary attempt.