Ramazan Temirov obliterates Steve Erceg at UFC Abu Dhabi

Ramazan Temirov dropped Steve Erceg face-first with a haymaker right hand at UFC Abu Dhabi on Saturday, finishing the former flyweight title challenger at 4:21 of the opening round.

Temirov wasted no time rushing the taller Erceg, per MMA Fighting, landing with increasing frequency as the round progressed. Erceg defended early but could not establish his own offense. The end came when Temirov connected with a monstrous right followed by two more punches that sent Erceg to the canvas unconscious. Referee Mike Beltran waved off the co-main event flyweight bout immediately.

Temirov returns from suspension with statement win

The 29-year-old improved to 3-0 inside the octagon, having sat out a year following a positive drug test in 2025. He picked up where he left off with back-to-back first-round finishes over Charles Johnson and CJ Vergara. Temirov called for a title shot afterward, though he likely needs more wins before reaching championship consideration.

Erceg falls to 5-4 in the UFC and surrenders his top-15 ranking to Temirov. The Australian had won two straight entering Saturday night. Temirov now stands at 20-3 overall, with the knockout cementing his status as a fighter to watch at 125 pounds.

UFC pros watching from home reacted to the brutal finish, according to MMA Fighting's coverage of the card. The result positions Temirov for a step up in competition when he returns to the cage later this year.

Original reporting:

• mmafighting.com — ‘Test that boy again’: Pros react to Ramazan Temirov’s nasty knockout of Steve Erceg at UFC Abu Dhabi | MMA Fighting
• mmafighting.com — UFC Abu Dhabi video: Ramazan Temirov runs through Steve Erceg with face-plant knockout | MMA Fighting