Chris Barnett’s long-awaited return to the UFC was cut short by an injury mid-fight.

Barnett faced Kennedy Nzechukwu in the UFC 308 prelims and appeared to be injured during the introduction of Bruce Buffer. Nzechukwu was seven inches taller than Barnett and stayed focused with punches to the midsection and straight punches.

“Beast Boy” attempted a spinning wheel kick in the first round that appeared to aggravate the injury, and it quickly faded as Nzechukwu drowned him out with volume, eventually securing the TKO.

This win marks a successful heavyweight debut for Nzechukwu, who had a career at light heavyweight prior to the fight.

Barnett returned from a litany of injuries and his final fight was postponed due to complications from Hurricane Milton. Whether the 38-year-old fighter returns after this crippling defeat remains to be seen.

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