Kevin Vallejos Dominates Josh Emmett at UFC Fight Night
Las Vegas, NV – Kevin Vallejos delivered a stunning first-round TKO victory over veteran Josh Emmett in the main event of UFC Fight Night on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas. The 24-year-old Argentine prospect showcased his speed and power, halting Emmett’s momentum and securing a $100,000 Performance of the Night bonus.
Vallejos Overwhelms Emmett in First Round
The fight concluded at 3:33 of the first round after Vallejos twice dropped Emmett with precise strikes. Emmett, 41, known for his own powerful striking, was unable to withstand the relentless pressure and speed of Vallejos. According to fight statistics, Vallejos landed 42 significant strikes compared to just two for Emmett.
“I have the utmost respect for Josh Emmett,” Vallejos said through a translator after the fight. “I grew up watching his brutal knockouts. I’m not going to lie, I came here with a little bit of fear.”
Fight Recap
The bout began with Emmett attempting to utilize movement, while Vallejos opened with a high kick that was blocked. Emmett rushed in with a left hand that missed, and Vallejos quickly countered with a punch of his own. Vallejos’ speed became apparent as he landed combinations, eventually dropping Emmett with a left hand. Emmett was visibly bloodied, and Vallejos continued to press the attack, dropping Emmett again with a right hand before securing the ground and pound finish.
Career Records
With this victory, Vallejos improves to 18-1 (4-0 UFC). Emmett falls to 19-7 (10-7 UFC) and has now lost five of his last six bouts.
Other Notable Results from UFC Fight Night
- Amanda Lemos vs. Gillian Robertson: Lemos defeated Robertson by unanimous decision (28-29, 28-29, 28-29) in a women’s strawweight bout.
- Andre Fili vs. Jose Miguel Delgado: Fili won by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 28-29) in a featherweight contest.
- Marwan Rahiki vs. Harry Hardwick: Rahiki secured a KO/TKO victory in the second round (5:00) in a featherweight fight.
- Ion Cutelaba vs. Oumar Sy: Cutelaba won by submission (guillotine choke) in the first round (4:24) in a light heavyweight bout.
- Charles Johnson vs. Bruno Silva: Johnson defeated Silva by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27) in a flyweight match.
- Chris Curtis vs. Myktybek Orolbai: Curtis won by unanimous decision (27-30, 27-30, 27-30) in a welterweight fight.
- Vitor Petrino vs. Steven Asplund: Petrino defeated Asplund by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) in a heavyweight bout.
- Elijah Smith vs. SuYoung You: Smith won by submission (rear-naked choke) in the second round (1:04) in a bantamweight fight.
The event, held at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, showcased a night of compelling fights across multiple weight classes. The full event was available on Paramount+.