Ramazan Temirov made a thrilling return to the Octagon on Saturday, knocking out former UFC flyweight title challenger Steve Erceg in the first round of their co-main event clash at UFC Abu Dhabi inside Etihad Arena.
The powerful flyweight wasted little to no time reminding the division of his knockout capabilities after being inactive for a while from competition.
Temirov’s Power Changes the Fight Instantly
Temirov entered the bout carrying questions after serving time away from the sport following a failed drug test in July 2025. Once the action began, however, his punching power quickly became the story.
Erceg was willing to meet him in the center of the cage and trade shots early. That decision proved costly against one of the hardest hitters at 125 pounds.
After a brief exchange, Temirov uncorked a crushing right hand that landed clean and dropped Erceg to the canvas.
Relentless Finish Seals the Statement Win
Erceg managed to beat the count and return to his feet, but Temirov never allowed him to recover. He pressed forward immediately with heavy combinations, repeatedly catching the Australian with clean punches.
The pressure continued to build until Temirov connected with another powerful right hand. The shot sent Erceg crashing face-first to the canvas along the fence, forcing the referee to wave off the fight in the first round.
The emphatic finish adds another highlight-reel knockout to Temirov’s resume and announces his return to the flyweight division in spectacular fashion.