After a significant hiatus of nearly 20 months, Australian Bantamweight fighter Cody Haddon made a resounding return to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) arena. His much-anticipated comeback saw him secure a decisive victory against Aoriqileng via second-round TKO. This triumph, which unfolded during the preliminary card of UFC Macau at the Galaxy Arena in Macau, China, not only extended Haddon's winning streak to seven consecutive fights but also firmly re-established his presence as a formidable force in the 135-pound division. His performance was a clear demonstration that his time away from the Octagon, necessitated by a series of injuries, had done nothing to diminish his skill or determination.
Dominant Performance at UFC Macau: Haddon Overwhelms Aoriqileng
On the morning of May 30, 2026, within the vibrant Galaxy Arena in Macau, SRA, China, a highly anticipated UFC Bantamweight bout took center stage. Australian phenom Cody Haddon, returning after a 20-month recovery from injuries, faced off against Chinese veteran Aoriqileng. From the opening bell, Haddon displayed an overwhelming level of control and aggression. He swiftly implemented his grappling strategy, repeatedly taking Aoriqileng to the canvas and maintaining dominant positions throughout the initial round. Haddon's relentless offense included submission threats and powerful ground strikes, earning him strong scores from the judges.
The second round saw no let-up in Haddon's pressure. He continued to push the pace, cornering Aoriqileng and delivering a devastating knee to the body that sent his opponent to the mat. Seizing the opportunity, Haddon immediately followed up with a barrage of punches, compelling the referee to intervene and stop the contest, declaring Haddon the winner by TKO. This commanding performance elevated Haddon's professional record to 9 wins and 1 loss, highlighting his readiness to compete at the highest level. For Aoriqileng, whose record now stands at 26-13, this loss snapped a recent momentum following a quick knockout victory, as he found himself completely outmatched by Haddon's superior technique and intensity.
Cody Haddon's victorious return offers a compelling narrative of perseverance and untapped potential. His ability to dominate a seasoned opponent after a lengthy injury layoff speaks volumes about his dedication and mental fortitude. This performance suggests that the Bantamweight division has a new, serious contender, and fans can anticipate an exciting future for the 27-year-old Australian as he continues his climb towards the top.
