Jacobe Smith delivered a memorable Octagon debut earlier tonight (Sat., Jan. 11, 2025) at UFC Vegas 101 live on ESPN+ from inside UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada, as ‘“Cobe” ended welterweight Preston Parsons with a first-round knockout (punch).
The talented prospect looked incredible last October to earn a UFC contract on the Contender Series, but nobody knew just how good Smith’s stopping power would translate into the Octagon. That’s exactly what happened Saturday night when Smith went toe-to-toe with Parsons, who entered UFC Vegas 101 a massive betting underdog.
It took Smith a grand total of 73 seconds to establish his range and timing to land a critical left hand. The punch connected flush and bended Parsons backwards to the canvas. The referee was in hot pursuit for the stoppage as Smith was lining up to land more punishing shots. Luckily for Parsons, the referee made it in time.
Check out the final moments in the above video player.
Smith, 28, is now 10-0 in his professional MMA career with eight of those victories coming by way of knockout. He’s one of the most promising new additions to the UFC’s stacked welterweight division and someone who can climb the ranks pretty quickly if his power continues to land.
For complete UFC Vegas 101 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.