Nick Newell’s first fight since his failed bid at a UFC contract was a success on Friday.

After losing his fight on Dana White’s Contender Series in July, Newell (15-2) returned to competition and scored a first-round submission win against Antonio Castillo Jr. (10-10) at CES MMA 56, which took place at Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, Conn.

Newell wasted no time getting the job done against Castillo Jr. He capitalized on his first opportunity to take the back and locked in a rear-naked choke that forced the tap at the 2:06 mark of Round 2.

Watch the replay below (via Twitter):

Newell said prior to CES MMA 56 that despite falling short on DWCS, he still was pursuing a UFC roster spot and felt he has what it takes to get there.

Clearly Newell feels his performance was enough to get the call, because he delivered a passionate message post-fight.

“I’ve been grinding for 19 years, I’ve been fighting professionally for 15 years,” Newell said. “I’m 15-2. What the (expletive) are you thinking, UFC? Let’s make this happen.”

For more on CES MMA 56, check out the MMA Events section of the site.

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