Terrance McKinney says UFC 329 stoppage sgainst King Green was premature

Lightweight Terrance McKinney contested his first-round loss to King Green at UFC 329, arguing that referee Kerry Hatley stopped the bout prematurely. The fight's main card opener was halted just seconds before the round ended after Green landed a body shot and McKinney covered up against the fence. Despite still defending himself, McKinney was deemed unable to continue.

McKinney took to social media to voice his grievance, posting that Green's liver strike was effective but the referee should have allowed the fight to proceed to the next round given the minimal time remaining. He acknowledged positive aspects of his performance, noting improved shot selection and growth in his approach rather than simply adjusting on the fly.

When asked about his decision to attempt a rear-naked choke instead of maintaining top position, McKinney admitted it was a tactical error, stating he should have remained on top. Despite the controversial finish and pre-fight tension, McKinney and Green later appeared together on social media, indicating mutual respect and the absence of lasting animosity between them.

The loss brought McKinney's UFC record to 8-6. Notably, only four of his 27 professional fights have extended beyond the opening round, highlighting his tendency toward early-round finishes or stoppages. Green, meanwhile, improved to a four-fight winning streak with the victory.