UFC star praised for classy move after brutally knocking out opponent

UFC star Andre Fili has been showered with praise for what he did after producing a knockout of the year contender.

Fili squared off against Kai Kamaka III in a featherweight clash at UFC Vegas 122 and bounced back to winning ways after two consecutive losses in 2026.

And he did so in stunning fashion, putting Kamaka away in the second round with an outrageous head kick.

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The 36-year-old's violent knockout led to those in attendance gasping in disbelief, with the UFC commentary team stunned at the finish.

UFC star stopped himself from landing killer shot after knockout

But there was an equal amount of shock over what Fili did after the incredible kick.

Replays showed that Kamaka was knocked out cold as his head smacked the canvas and Fili displayed remarkably quick thinking to recognise that.

He refrained from punching Kamaka as he lay on the ground, smartly pulling his right hand away.

The referee also leapt to stop any potential onslaught, as is normally the case inside the Octagon.

But Fili was aware that the damage was done and his classy actions were widely commended on social media.

Former UFC star Cub Swanson took to X and wrote: "Shout out to @TouchyFili with the sick HeadKick! And for not landing the follow up shot after seeing his opponent was done. Classy Move."

Terrance McKinney was also full of praise, commenting: "Good restraint by Andre respect that was beautiful."

A third user stated: "That was class for sure. Could’ve sent him to the shadow realm. Opted not to. Legend for real."

A fourth added: "We need to normalize crediting fighters for not following up."

A fifth person stated: "No point of hurting the other man permanently. Fili always been a badass."

UFC star explains why he pulled punch following insane knockout

Not many fighters would show any kind of mercy when they see the opportunity to finish their opponent, particularly in the heat of battle.

But Fili, a veteran of MMA, did just that. Fili, who has 14 wins in the featherweight division pocketed a $100,000 Performance of the Night bonus and spoke afterwards about his immediate craving for pizza.

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However, Fili also addressed his decision to show restraint and showed his class yet again as he spoke about Kamaka having a wife and kids.

Speaking in the press conference, Fili said: "I'm a criminal but I'm not a piece of s***. I treat people with respect. When I knock someone out there's no need to land that extra shot. He's got kids and he's got a wife, he's got a future outside fighting.

"It's not necessary man and I hope he's OK. I didn't really want to watch the replay back.

"Hurting is part of the sport. I like winning fights, getting paid to winning fights. Hurting people is a byproduct of that, it's not a driving force for me."