The morning after the event, the MMA media landscape erupted with reactions.
Headlines flooded every platform, some praising Damon's brilliance, others dissecting what they called "the most unique submission of the year." Analysts broke down the sequence frame by frame.
Slow-motion replays circulated on social media, pausing on the transition from armbar to neck crank that had forced Nankalayev to tap.
Many were shocked not just by the win, but by how clean it was.
Less than two months ago, Damon's win over Jon Dlachovizc had sparked criticism. Fans claimed Jon was past his prime. Others argued Damon had played it safe.
Even respected voices called the performance "hesitant," questioning if he was truly ready for the leap to light heavyweight.
This time, there was no hesitation. He hadn't just won. He had outwrestled a man who was supposed to be stronger, defended better, and couldn't be finished.
