Terrance McKinney returned to the lightweight win column earlier today (Sat., Feb. 1, 2025) at UFC Saudi Arabia live on ESPN+ from inside anb Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, demolishing a returning Damir Hadzovic with a brutal first-round TKO (punches).
Fight fans have grown accustomed to seeing McKinney either finish his opponent or suffer a brutal loss. Entering Saturday’s “Prelims” clash with Hadzovic, McKinney had produced five finishes inside of the Octagon while suffering four losses by way of knockout or submission. “T.Wrecks” usually does his best work against unranked competition and when he’s expected to win so fight fans were banking on a dominant performance this weekend.
Unfortunately for Hadzovic, who was coming off a two-and-a-half year layoff, McKinney was on his game from the opening bell. He was a little calmer than usual, but still pressed the action on the feet with his hands to force Hadzovic to use his wrestling. Once Hadzovic changed levels McKinney was there to threaten with a guillotine choke. He eventually used the choke to transition and gain top control, which is where he finished the fight with vicious punches.
Check out the video highlights in the above player.
McKinney, 30, made some changes to his camp in hopes of finally making a run for the lightweight rankings in 2025. The talented finisher has all the ability in the world, but his balls-to-the-wall mentality often leaves him open for counter attacks and finishes. If McKinney can keep his composure early into these fights he could finally string along some victories. This finish on Saturday was a nice start in the right direction.
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