"Almost had you there," Damon said, eyes sharp.
Ash didn't respond, focused on his next move. He faked a low takedown, then popped up quickly, grabbing Damon's arm and spinning into an arm drag.
He pulled Damon off-balance for a second and quickly moved to take his back.
Damon felt it and immediately dropped to a knee, turning into Ash before he could secure the position.
He grabbed Ash's wrist, controlling it, and used his other hand to post on the ground, pushing himself back up to his feet.
Ash wasn't giving up. He drove forward again, grabbing for Damon's waist, trying to lock his hands. Damon fought the grip, digging his elbows in and keeping Ash's hands from locking around his hips.
They struggled for a moment, pushing against each other. Damon shoved Ash back, creating space again.
"You sure about this, Ash?" Damon asked, voice steady.