Last seen, the Irishman broke his leg against Dustin Poirier three years ago.
Even other fighters were stunned by the shocking finish to their fight.
New Zealand's latest UFC prospect-in-waiting features on the Arsenal X event in Auckland.
The 'Black Jag' will now face the higher ranked Alonzo Menifield in March.
New middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis wasted no time pointing his finger at 'The Last Stylebender'.
'The Notorious' is back... apparently.
The City Kickboxing product has been granted his wish with a light heavyweight bout against Dominick Reyes.
"Thank you guys for being here, I really appreciate it."
"I know that people might follow me and I want them to know I do not think this behaviour is acceptable."
'The Last Stylebender' is determined to bounce back and claim the middleweight belt for a third time after his upset loss to Sean Strickland.
The champion has lost his title for the second time in 10 months.
The fifth-ranked American was a big underdog, but dominated throughout.
Kai Kara-France was forced from the UFC 293 card, after suffering concussion in training.
Pundits and fans are adamant Sean Strickland will be the easiest fight of his decorated career.
Welterweight Kevin Jousset has inked a multi-fight with the UFC, becoming the renowned Auckland gym's first fulltime non-Kiwi to graduate to the world's premier MMA promotion.
American Sean Strickland has stepped in to face 'The Last Stylebender' in the headline act for the UFC's return 'down under'.
With the South African reportedly out due to injury, 'The Last Stylebender' has pointed his finger to a new challenger.
'Don't Blink' will lock horns with Manel Kape at UFC 293.
The lightweight contender also broke an arm during the bloody encounter.
The Kiwi outlasted American Jalin Turner for a split-decision win at UFC 290.
