Ribovics Ends Green's Streak with First-Round TKO at UFC 332

Key points

• Ribovics secured a TKO victory over King Green in the first round at UFC 332, held at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on October 3, 2026.
• Referee Herb Dean stopped the fight at 4:08 after Ribovics dropped Green multiple times, including a final knockdown that ended the bout.
• King Green, aged 40, had previously missed weight, earning a 20% purse bonus from Ribovics, which he joked about wanting in $1 bills.
• Green protested the stoppage immediately but later gave two thumbs up to the doctor, indicating he was physically okay despite the loss.
• Ribovics, aged 30, improved his professional record to 17-3, while Green's record fell to 36-18-1, ending his recent winning momentum.

Background

King Green had been building a new fanbase through streaming and boxing gym sparring since his July knockout of Terrance McKinney. He entered UFC 332 with a 36-17-1 record and 13 knockout victories, aiming for his 18th UFC win. The event was headlined by Natalia Silva's flyweight title victory over Wang Cong, following Valentina Shevchenko's injury-related vacating of the belt. Green's fight was part of a card featuring several first-round finishes, including Roman Kopylov's TKO of Ateba Gautier.

How outlets are covering it

MMA Junkie emphasized the physical dominance of Ribovics, noting multiple knockdowns and the referee's near-intervention before the final stoppage. Bloody Elbow highlighted Green's taunting behavior and the crowd's boos toward referee Herb Dean, as well as Green's immediate protest. MMA Sucka focused on the pre-fight weight miss, detailing Green's humorous reaction to the 20% purse bonus. CBS Sports provided video highlights and pre-fight previews, confirming the event's location and date but offering no unique analytical perspective on the fight's outcome.

Why it matters

The result marks a significant shift in the lightweight division, ending King Green's recent winning streak and highlighting the rising threat of Esteban Ribovics. The bout also underscores the impact of weight-cut drama on fighter finances and morale, as Green's pre-fight bonus did not translate into a victory. The event's overall card, featuring multiple first-round finishes, reflects the current emphasis on striking and finishing in the UFC.

What to watch

Ribovics is expected to continue his upward trajectory in the lightweight division, potentially earning a higher-profile matchup. King Green may need to reassess his training and strategy following the loss, particularly given his age and recent activity. The UFC is likely to schedule Ribovics against a top contender in his next bout, while Green may face a lower-ranked opponent to rebuild his momentum.