Amidst a slick new graphics package making its debut on pay-per-view, UFC 189 kicked off on Saturday with a classic battle of a veteran versus an up-and-comer, as popular Englishman Brad Pickett returned to 135 pounds to throw hands with undefeated Brazilian prospect Thomas Almeida.
It was a great way to start the event with a bang, as Almeida scored a wild flying-knee knockout early in the second round. The bout was an absolute barnburner, providing nonstop violence from the open bell to its savage end, with both men landing big combinations and wobbling each other on occasion.