Former UFC heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski made a strong impression in his Misfits Boxing debut in Nashville, scoring a knockout victory against Netflix star Kelechi ‘Kelz’ Dyke.
Arlovski, who won his first interim UFC heavyweight title back in 2005, faced an opponent who was only 11 years old at that time, emphasizing a significant age and experience difference between the two fighters.
The bout marked Arlovski’s third fight since leaving the UFC last year. He had previously won his Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) and Dirty Boxing matches by doctor’s stoppage. From the start, Arlovski aggressively pursued a finish, while Kelz demonstrated notable skill in countering his veteran opponent.
Kelz managed to last into the second round and nearly compelled Arlovski to revert to his MMA grappling techniques. However, late in the round, Arlovski landed a powerful right hand that shifted momentum despite concerns about his ability to finish a less experienced challenger.
The fight extended to the fourth round, with Kelz visibly hurt at the end of the third. Shortly after, Arlovski delivered a decisive right hand that knocked Kelz down instantly, securing a stoppage victory.
“Andrei Arlovski flew out of the traps looking for the finish early, and Kelz looked impressive in his abilities to stifle his much more experienced rival’s work.”
“With just over a minute on the clock, Arlovski blasted out Kelz with a big right hand that sent the Brit down instantly.”
His experience and power clearly outmatched his opponent, confirming why Arlovski remains a formidable force in combat sports despite his advancing age.