Ernesto Rodriguez ended Ballymena's Rhys McKee's momentum on Saturday night as he forced a stoppage in the opening round of their welterweight bout at PFL Dubai.
A massive right-hand punch landed midway through the first minute, sending McKee to the mat before his opponent pressed forward with a combination that led referee Mike Beltran to halt the contest after two minutes and twenty-eight seconds.
Rodriguez, who had not competed in an octagon since losing the world title to PFL champion Thad Jean in July, improved his professional record to 12-2 following the victory.
The Cuban-American fighter entered the arena seeking a breakthrough but found himself facing a seasoned opponent with a 26-fight history that includes 15 wins and one draw.
McKee, who previously held titles from BAMMA and Cage Warriors and spent two stints in the UFC, had secured his first PFL points victory earlier this year against Alex Lohore in April.
Despite hoping to advance toward championship contention on a card headlined by heavyweight rivals Vadim Nemkov and Sergei Bilostenniy, McKee must now focus on rebuilding his form after what marks his eighth career defeat.
The 31-year-old from Ballymena had hoped Saturday's result would propel him into title contention but the loss requires a fresh start in his professional journey.