Alexander Volkanovski was knocked out by Islam Makhachev in the first round at UFC 294.
The fight took place at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, with Makhachev retaining his lightweight title.
What happened?
Makhachev looked calm and composed, attempting a takedown, but Volkanovski reversed it and pushed Makhachev against the cage fence.
Makhachev then landed a clean head kick, dropping Volkanovski, and finished the fight.
Why it matters for Alexander Volkanovski
Volkanovski took the fight on short notice, replacing Charles Oliveira, who pulled out due to an injury.
Volkanovski praised Makhachev as a great champion, saying "he's a great champion, I mean what can you do."
What comes next?
Volkanovski plans to return to the featherweight division, seeking to fight early next year.
He asked the UFC to keep him busy with more fights, saying "please keep me busy, I will obviously be going back down to featherweight."
The fight was Volkanovski's second loss to Makhachev this year, after losing a decision victory at UFC 284 in Perth.
Volkanovski accepted the fight on short notice, with UFC boss Dana White saying "these guys are absolute studs, he jumps in and accepts the fight."
Makhachev showed admiration for Volkanovski, saying "thank you to this guy, he is a real champion, you have to turn off his lights to defeat this guy."
Volkanovski's loss was a devastating one, but he was gracious in defeat, praising Makhachev's skills.
The Australian featherweight champion will now focus on his return to the featherweight division.
He will look to bounce back from this loss and regain his momentum in the division.
The event also featured a fight between Kamaru Usman and Khamzat Chimaev, with Chimaev winning by unanimous decision.
Chimaev's victory sets up a fight with champion Sean Strickland.
The UFC 294 event was a significant one, with several high-profile fights taking place.
Volkanovski's plans for the future are clear, with a focus on returning to the featherweight division.
He will look to regain his title and continue his success in the division.
The Australian champion will be back in action soon, seeking to make a statement in the featherweight division.