The highly anticipated debut of the Bonfim brothers arrived on Saturday at UFC 283, and it was Ismael Bonfim getting arguably the toughest match-up of the two, in a lightweight scrap against Terrance McKinney.
McKinney, one of the UFC’s budding stars, had never been to a decision prior to Saturday. A considerable challenge for Ismael, who debuted along with brother Gabriel after winning big on the Contender Series last year.
Bonfim had not lost since a 2014 fight against Renato Moicano. That streak continued on Saturday, as the Brazilian arrived in the UFC in style.
In the first round McKinney threw a lot of kicks and step-in knees to start the fight. Bonfim was patient but landed a big combination off a counter. Bonfim did try for a takedown but McKinney defended. McKinney used the failed takedown from Bonfim to press him against the cage but nothing came from it. Bonfim landed another good strike, forcing McKinney to clinch back up.
McKinney got to the back of Bonfim and pulled him down. There were no hooks in so Bonfim was able to turn towards him and get back to his feet. Bonfim got two quick brief takedowns of his own. Bonfim ended the round by landing a head kick but slipped and McKinney landed on top. Clean striking from Bonfim so far.
In the second round, Bonfim got the attention of McKinney early with a right hand. McKinney was looking flustered with the striking and counter ability of Bonfim. McKinney was still throwing but was over-extending and Bonfim was countering away. Bonfim landed a nasty right hand knocking the mouthpiece out. Seconds later Bonfim landed a switch knee knocking McKinney out cold face first.
ISMAEL BONFIM WITH THE FLYING KNEE 😱😱
[ #UFC283 | Live on ESPN+ PPV – Link In Bio ] pic.twitter.com/igFcfsRHh6
— UFC (@ufc) January 22, 2023
It’s only January, and we have a Knockout of the Year candidate already!
Official Result: Ismael Bonfim def. Terrance McKinney by KO (flying knee), Round 2, 2:17
