Dominick Reyes Blasts Out Murzakanov at UFC 333

Dominick Reyes knocked out Azamat Murzakanov in the first round at UFC 333, flooring him with a head kick and left hand before finishing the job with ground-and-pound. The official result: Reyes def. Murzakanov via first-round KO at 2:40.

Reyes spent the opening minute working the legs, chopping at Murzakanov's lead leg until Murzakanov switched to southpaw to escape the damage. Reyes simply adjusted and started kicking the other leg instead. A hard low kick buckled Murzakanov briefly, and he answered by charging in with a one-two that found nothing but air.

The finish came out of nowhere. Reyes landed a head kick that wobbled Murzakanov, then closed the show with a left hand that put him on the canvas. Reyes followed him down and the referee stepped in before Murzakanov could absorb any more punishment.

What This Win Means for Dominick Reyes

Dominick Reyes, a former UFC light heavyweight title challenger, needed exactly one round to remind the division he still carries real knockout power. Reyes built his leg kicks into the fight patiently before switching levels for the finish, the kind of veteran sequencing that got him to a title shot in the first place. For a fighter who has dealt with a rough stretch of results since that title run, a finish this clean and this fast is the best possible way to get back into the conversation at 205 pounds.

The Betting Angle

Murzakanov came into UFC 333 having built a reputation as a dangerous striker in his own right, which makes the one-sided nature of this finish notable for anyone handicapping the light heavyweight ranks going forward. Reyes' leg kick to head kick sequencing is a real weapon that oddsmakers and matchmakers will have to account for the next time he's booked, since he showed he can set up power shots off low kicks rather than needing to lead with his hands. Expect Reyes to see his stock rise with sportsbooks and the UFC matchmaking team alike after a finish this decisive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Dominick Reyes beat Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 333?

Dominick Reyes knocked out Azamat Murzakanov in the first round at UFC 333, landing a head kick followed by a left hand and ground-and-pound before the referee stopped the fight at 2:40 of round one.

What round did Dominick Reyes finish Azamat Murzakanov?

Dominick Reyes finished Azamat Murzakanov in round one at UFC 333, stopping him via knockout at the 2:40 mark.

Is Dominick Reyes a former UFC title challenger?

Yes, Dominick Reyes previously challenged for the UFC light heavyweight title before his first-round knockout win over Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 333.