Outside of the two main events on UFC 224 and Vitor Belfort's retirement bout, several other notable stars appeared on the show.
Brian Kelleher hoped to jump into the UFC top 15 rankings that for some reason eluded him, but faced a big task in #6 John Lineker in doing so. He wasn't able to do that, although he put up a noble effort on his way to being knocked out in the third round. The two traded heavy punches throughout the first two rounds, until an aggressive Lineker connected with a violent left hook to end things.
After the fight, Lineker -- a winner of 8 of his last nine fights -- said he wanted a title shot.
Under the radar, #14 Junior Albini looked to get back on the winning track in taking on #10 Aleksei Oleinik. It didn't end up happening, as Oleinek was able to overcome an early cut, pull guard out of the clinch, and win via another insane Ezekiel choke from the bottom. His two Ezekiel choke wins in the UFC are a record.
Mackenzie Dern monumentally missed weight for her main card pay-per-view fight against Amanda Bobby Cooper. Karma took the night off, as Dern was able to find a home for an overhand right that led to a rear naked choke submission victory in round 1. After the fight, she specified she wanted to take some time off.
Elsewhere on the show, Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos etched his name as worthy of top 15 consideration when he became the first fighter to finish Sean Strickland, and did so via a highlight reel wheel kick knockout. He's now won five in a row in the UFC, with his one loss a close split decision.
You can see our full, live UFC 224 coverage at this link, and join in on our post-show podcast, which airs live right after the PPV.
