Former UFC competitor Alexey Oleinik experienced a harsh introduction to bare-knuckle fighting, suffering a first-round knockout against Geronimo Dos Santos at BKFC 71 in Dubai on Friday.
Oleinik, known for his grappling skills, struggled to effectively use his striking against Dos Santos, a larger and physically stronger opponent who was significantly heavier at the weigh-in.
After a brief period of close-quarters fighting, Dos Santos created space and unleashed a powerful right hand that struck Oleinik behind the ear, immediately dropping him to the ground.
Oleinik remained on the canvas for several minutes, requiring medical assistance before eventually sitting up and regaining his footing.
The fight concluded at 1 minute and 49 seconds of the first round, with Dos Santos securing a spectacular knockout victory.
Dos Santos, who had prior bare-knuckle experience, appears to be a promising addition to the BKFC heavyweight division, which is currently headed by another ex-UFC fighter, Ben Rothwell.
