Overview
- Riley defeated Michael Aswell Jr. by unanimous decision with three 30–27 cards after a back-and-forth striking bout.
- He landed the heavier shots yet called his performance a “5 out of 10” and praised Aswell’s toughness, saying the American had a “cinder-block” head.
- The fight was only Riley’s second in the promotion, a co-main slot he said showed the company “put a lot of trust in me.”
- Coverage drew parallels to the UFC’s elevation of teammate Paddy Pimblett, with debate over whether this showcase produced a true breakout moment.
- Riley improved to 2-0 in the UFC as discussion shifted to possible next opponents, including long-rumored foe Kevin Vallejos, while Aswell fell to 1-2 in the promotion.