LONDON — Tom Aspinall looked the real deal at the O2 Arena on Saturday night, as British fight fans finally got their regular fix of UFC live action back following the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aspinall needed less than one round to tap out heavyweight contender Alexander Volkov in the Fight Night main event, in what was his first contest under Dana White's banner to have a live crowd present.
And not only did the packed O2 roar him to victory, but they did so after hitting high decibel levels several times on an explosive card of action for other successful home hopes.
Arnold Allen also took out experienced big-stage opposition in round number one in the co-main, inflicting a breathless flurry upon Dan Hooker until the referee stepped in.
Meanwhile, Liverpool duo Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett and Molly 'Meatball' McCann continued their rises with emphatic victories.
McCann's success over Luana Carolina in particular ended with a bang, and her spinning back elbow KO of the Brazilian is an early contender for MMA finish of the year.
For all the happenings of the UFC London card, please check out the liveblog below.