UFC Fight Night 258: Axel Sola vs Rhys McKee

Axel Sola made a remarkable UFC debut at UFC Paris on Saturday, September 6, 2025, by defeating Rhys McKee via third-round TKO. The bout, held at the Accor Arena in Paris, showcased Sola’s striking prowess and composure under pressure. After a competitive first two rounds, Sola delivered a decisive body shot in the third, followed by ground strikes that led to the referee’s stoppage at 2:02.

Throughout the fight, Sola demonstrated superior speed and technical striking. He effectively utilized a straight left hand and a head kick to control the pace. McKee, known for his power, struggled to land significant strikes against Sola’s defensive movement and lateral footwork. Sola’s ability to mix up his attacks kept McKee on the defensive throughout the contest.

The stoppage, however, sparked controversy within the MMA community. Many fighters and fans felt that McKee was still defending himself and had not been given a fair chance to recover. UFC commentators Michael Bisping and Paul Felder expressed their reservations, acknowledging the possibility of an early stoppage. Despite the criticism, referee Herb Dean’s decision was upheld, and Sola’s victory was recorded.

Following the fight, Sola’s performance was lauded for its precision and control. The win improved his professional record to 11-0-1, signaling a promising future in the welterweight division. McKee, on the other hand, fell to 14-7-1, facing another setback in his UFC career.

In summary, Axel Sola’s UFC debut at UFC Paris was marked by a dominant performance and a controversial stoppage. While the outcome was met with mixed reactions, Sola’s skill set and composure in the Octagon suggest a bright future ahead in the welterweight division.