Cody Haddon marked his territory in the UFC with a stellar performance on October 12, 2024, when he faced off against Dan Argueta at UFC Fight Night 244 in Las Vegas. This fight was particularly significant for Haddon, as it was not only his official UFC debut but also a showcase of his resilience, technique, and sheer determination inside the octagon. With a unanimous decision victory (30-27 across all judges), Haddon demonstrated that he belongs on the pinnacle of mixed martial arts, especially after earning his spot via a contract win on Dana White’s Contender Series just months earlier.
In the preliminary card setting, Haddon was tasked with overcoming the challenges posed by Argueta, who came into the matchup with a wealth of experience. Argueta’s aggressive style and relentless pursuit earned him 24 takedown attempts during the bout—a clear testament to his strategy of overpowering opponents through grappling. However, Haddon’s performance was nothing short of impressive; he successfully adapted to the onslaught and emerged victorious, proving that he has the skill set needed to compete at the highest level.
Reflecting on the fight, Haddon expressed his initial apprehensions. The nerves were palpable, with the young fighter admitting that he felt almost sickened before the match. “I knew that it was going to take it out of me,” he confessed, highlighting both the intensity of the fight and the mental challenges fighters face in such high-pressure environments. Despite feeling the weight of those emotions, Haddon succeeded in displaying his striking capabilities and tactical awareness, effectively countering Argueta’s advances and maintaining control throughout the bout.
Haddon’s post-fight comments revealed his resilient spirit. He acknowledged Argueta’s strength and experience, admitting that the fight was not an easy feat. His words resonate well with the sporting ethos of MMA: fighters often face formidable opponents who push them to their limits, challenging their mental fortitude and physical capabilities. Haddon’s unwavering commitment to performance and excitement encapsulates the spirit of competition in the UFC, where the battle is not only for victory but for respect and recognition.
Having secured an important win, Haddon is focused on what lies ahead. His ambition is clear: he wants to continue climbing the ranks within the bantamweight division, with aspirations of fighting on home soil in Australia. “I hear there’s a card in Australia coming…I want to be on that one so I can bring all my fans from Australia,” he stated passionately. This goal reveals a fighter who is not just in the sport for personal glory but also values the support of his fans and community, highlighting an admirable characteristic of humility in a competitive environment.
Interestingly, Haddon’s reluctance to call out specific fighters indicates a respectful approach towards his peers in the bantamweight category. He understands the level of skill possessed by other fighters, acknowledging that each competitor has earned their place. His attitude reflects a deep appreciation for the sport and a desire to engage in meaningful and exciting matchups, rather than resorting to controversy for attention.
Cody Haddon’s journey in the UFC is just beginning, but his debut performance has positioned him as a strong contender in the bantamweight division. His ability to navigate tough situations, combined with his skill set and passion for the sport, paints a promising picture for what lies ahead. With plans to fight in Australia and a mindset geared towards continual improvement, fans can expect to witness a lot more from this emerging star. As he continues to earn his place among the elite, the MMA community should keep a close eye on Haddon’s career, for he is undoubtedly a fighter poised for greatness.