Nikolas Motta got back into the UFC win column earlier tonight (Sat., Jan. 13, 2024) at UFC Vegas 84 live on ESPN+ from inside UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada, stopping Contender Series winner, Tom Nolan, with a blistering first-round TKO (punches).
Motta was the betting underdog for this “Prelims” affair, but he didn’t fight like it. The Brazilian came out firing and went toe-to-toe with Nolan, scoring crisp punches from all ranges. He eventually caught Nolan with a nasty right hand and knocked him to the canvas.
Nolan, who has never been finished in his career, tried to fight and get back to his feet. Unfortunately for the Contender Series alum, Motta would not be denied. He unloaded hard punches to the side of the head from behind and eventually forced the referee to step in for the stoppage.
Check out the quick finish in the above video player.
Motta, 30, now holds a record of 2-2 (1 NC) throughout five Octagon appearances. This was easily his biggest performance to date and an outing that could keep him around a little longer. After all, Motta has finished 10 out of his 13 career wins by way of knockout.
For complete UFC Vegas 84 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
This story originally appeared on MMA Mania
