Terrence McKinney is ready to show UFC fans he’s not a one-hit wonder.
McKinney’s promotional debut couldn’t have gone any better when he scored a seven-second knockout of Matt Frevola at UFC 263 in June. Not only did he earn a “Performance of the Night” bonus, but he recorded the fastest KO in UFC lightweight history.
The 27-year-old will look to continue riding that momentum when he takes on former K-1 champion Fares Ziam at the UFC’s Nov. 20 “Fight Night” event, and with his past four wins not even lasting half a round combined, McKinney (11-3 MMA, 1-0 UFC) is predicting another quick finish.
“We’re looking to make a lot of noise this fight – get out there and show people that it’s not just a fluke, it’s no lucky hits,” McKinney told MMA Junkie. “We trained super hard for this, and I’m excited to show them what we’ve been working on.
“I’ve got 14 fights and less than 30 minutes of cage time. I like to finish fights and I like to put on exciting fights. I’m not a decision fighter. I’m looking to end the fight at all times. I think we definitely get the first-round finish – guaranteed.”
Despite being a standout wrestler in high school, McKinney’s striking has been the story for him this year. He has no intentions of utilizing a grapple-heavy approach and isn’t afraid to stand and trade with accomplished kickboxer Ziam (12-3 MMA, 2-1 UFC).
“He fought on the same card as me before me during my (UFC) debut, so I got to watch him when I was sitting in the back,” McKinney said. “I think it’s just a good second fight for me in the UFC, and I think it plays in my favor.
“He’s a great K-1 kickboxer champion, and I was just trying to test my standup. And if I can get this guy on the standup, who can really mess with me? I’m super good at wrestling. I can stand up with a K-1 kickboxer. I’m just ready to show the world I’m the best, and that’s what we’re going to do.”