San Angelo's Arredondo Wins MMA Debut Despite Fighting on Fractured Foot

“It felt great — a lot of years coming,” Arredondo said.

Arredondo revealed after the fight that he had fractured his foot three weeks earlier. He added that he plans to rest and recover before returning to competition, possibly in December.

Coach Conrad Duran, also of San Angelo, confirmed the injury but said it didn’t affect Arredondo’s performance. “It didn’t bother him at all, thankfully … he did everything fine, even with that foot,” Duran said.

Duran described the fight as one-sided, crediting Arredondo’s experience from years of youth competition.

“His biggest strength was just pure confidence with his experience … once he stepped in the cage, it was like he was home, in a sense. Nothing was going to get him off that confidence,” Duran said. "The other thing Caleb was doing well was transitioning to other options. He wasn't being stubborn with anything. He was going for everything that was presented." 

In the first round, Arredondo nearly finished with a choke, but his opponent defended. In the second, he secured another takedown, transitioned through multiple attacks, and finished with a rear-naked choke to seal the win. Duran said only one punch was landed on Arredondo. 

Arredondo said he was overwhelmed by the backing he received. “I just want to say I appreciate all the support — I really felt it there live. There was a big crowd cheering for me,” he said.

Duran added that Arredondo will continue working with both Redemption Jiu Jitsu and striking coach Angel Delgado of No Xcuses MMA in San Angelo.

“Caleb had a lot going on in this match … he did everything that he projected that he would do," Duran said. "Nothing fazed him. He knew what he wanted, he got there, and he just enjoyed the moment." 

Arredondo said his goal is to fight again later this year or in early 2026, depending on recovery. “Maybe in December, I'll try to take another fight,” he said.