Luke Riley Wins TKO at UFC 329 Amid Referee Stoppage Debate

Undefeated featherweight prospect Luke Riley scored a third-round technical knockout victory over Kai Kamaka III at UFC 329 in Las Vegas on Saturday, July 11, 2026, but the decisive finish was overshadowed by immediate controversy over the referee's decision to stop the fight. The bout, which opened the preliminary card, ended officially at 3:03 of the first round after referee Kerry Hatley intervened.

Riley, a 27-year-old from Liverpool, England, improved his professional record to 14-0 and secured his third consecutive UFC win. The fight began with Kamaka targeting Riley's lead leg, but Riley pressed forward and landed a powerful straight right hand that dropped Kamaka. The Hawaiian fighter showed resilience by returning to his feet, but Riley immediately swarmed him with a relentless combination of punches and a knee against the fence, prompting Hatley to wave off the contest.

The stoppage drew swift criticism from cageside commentator Joe Rogan, who expressed his disapproval live on the broadcast. Rogan was heard repeatedly stating he did not agree with the call, arguing that Kamaka, while hurt, should have been given more opportunity to recover or defend himself. Fellow...