Darren Elkins wanted one final moment in the Octagon. Instead, his UFC farewell ended almost as soon as it began.
The veteran featherweight suffered a brutal 35-second knockout loss to Yadier del Valle at UFC Vegas 120 on Saturday night at the revamped Meta Apex in Las Vegas.
Elkins, 42, entered the bout after a lengthy break from competition. His last appearance came in April 2025, when Julian Erosa stopped him by TKO. This time, Elkins was hoping to close out his career with a victory and leave the UFC on his own terms.
Del Valle Strikes Fast
Del Valle wasted little time showing why he is considered one of the division’s promising young fighters.
The two featherweights exchanged early in the opening seconds before Del Valle found his opening. He hurt Elkins during the initial exchange and immediately went after him.
A powerful left hand landed cleanly and sent Elkins crashing to the canvas.
Elkins went stiff as he fell, leaving the referee with little choice but to step in and end the fight. The official stoppage came just 35 seconds into the opening round.
A Brutal Ending for Elkins
The defeat marked the quickest loss of Elkins’ UFC career.
Elkins, who built a reputation as one of the promotion’s toughest veterans, was looking to add another victory to his UFC résumé before walking away. Instead, he suffered a devastating final outing.
The loss came against a fighter viewed as having significant potential at 145 pounds. Del Valle’s speed and finishing ability were on full display as he immediately capitalized on his opportunity.
For Elkins, the result brought an abrupt end to a long UFC run. His final appearance lasted less than a minute, leaving the veteran with little time to settle into what was expected to be his last fight.