Local MMA fights for the sport he loves – Blue Ribbon News

Rockwall, TX (October 23, 2024) – Damon Jackson dreamed of becoming a professional athlete from a young age. For him, the only question was whether to pursue major league pitching or pursue his passion for the UFC.

Deciding to follow his heart to the UFC was certainly the right thing to do! The Rockwall resident has been successfully competing in the Ultimate Fighting Championship for 11 years, with an impressive record of 23-7-1.

Damon grew up in Durant, Oklahoma, where his uncle introduced him to mixed martial arts. The sport fascinated him. As a fan and with no other martial arts options, Damon began wrestling in Year 7^Th class, she continued through college and became employed shortly after graduation.

Throughout his career, he learned that MMA, like other sports, requires individual hard work and discipline with conditioning, focus, strategy and good coaching.

Today, after a tough fight in August, Damon faces his next main event on November 16th at Madison Square Garden in New York. He will face Jim Miller, a highly skilled competitor – and Damon is already in the middle of training camp.

“Working out is hard – it’s a lifestyle,” says Damon. He trains for several hours every day, combining sparring, grappling, kickboxing, strength and conditioning training, and jiu-jitsu – among other disciplines and priorities.

Preparing for the big fight requires mental, physical and emotional training. The 8-10 week camp is about strengthening the body inside and out. In addition to physical and mental training, Damon will watch film of his opponent to develop the best attack strategy.

Without an “off season,” MMA fighters may have three to four fights per year, separated by recovery and intense training. The sport is demanding on the body, but these dedicated athletes are well-conditioned and disciplined professionals whose lifestyles are focused on staying fit.

While some may believe that MMA fighters are aggressive, this father of four daughters will tell you otherwise. Self-control and discipline are crucial to sports and great life lessons.

When asked if he is thinking about his future in the sport, Damon quickly replies: “I love it so much! I will know when is the right time to step down. I am 36 years old, so it is more difficult for me to recover at an age. But as long as I can safely compete at a high level, I will.”

Using his background and experience to train and coach local athletes, Damon opened Fortis MMA 18 months ago. Located at Rockwall’s 24 HR Fitness, Damon works with a variety of athletes, including some who are pursuing professional MMA careers.

You can watch Damon’s upcoming fight on pay-per-view.

Blue Ribbon News staff report. Photos courtesy of UFC, submitted by Damon Jackson.

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