In this article

  • Phil Rowe (4-5 UFC, 11-7 MMA) picked up an emphatic win at Island Fights 97 on Friday.
  • Rowe was knocked down in the opening round, almost causing a huge upset.
  • Rowe found a triangle submission in the first round to win.

Phil Rowe wins first fight since leaving UFC

Ex-UFC star Phil Rowe has picked up his first win on the regional MMA circuit, following his release from the UFC in March. Rowe (11-7 MMA) survived an early knockdown at the hands of 8-7 fighter Jacob Kilburn to find a triangle submission in the very first round.

Rowe dropped by a big right hand in round 1

Rowe starred as the main event for Island Fights 97, a regional promotion.

His opponent, Kilburn, also fought in the UFC, losing both times to Billy Quarantillo and Austin Lingo. ‘Killer’ was riding a five-fight losing streak before facing Rowe, but he almost caused a major upset when he floored ‘The Fresh Prince’ with a left hook, right cross combination in the opening frame.

Rowe was known for his durability in the UFC. He was never finished inside the promotion, and has only been beaten once by KO/TKO in his professional career, that being his debut in 2014. His lanky 6’3″ frame and awkward defence have made him an elusive target.

Rowe defeats Kilburn by round one triangle choke

His punch resistance paid off in this match with Kilburn, as he pulled guard and used his long legs to wrap up a tight triangle choke, forcing a tap. It’s a rare victory for Rowe; the Brooklyn native hadn’t won a fight by submission since before the UFC in 2019.

Rowe was released from the UFC in March 2026, likely owing to his spotty record in the promotion, as well as his frequent weight misses and extended injury layoffs. He did have a perfect KO/TKO record, finishing every fight he won.

His descent into being released began with a tepid decision loss to Neil Magny in 2023. Perennial welterweight gatekeeper Magny is usually reserved as a stern test for up-and-coming welterweights, and Rowe failed on all accounts. At the time of release, Rowe was 1-4 in his last five appearances, spanning three years.

At 35, Rowe could well make another case for rejoining the UFC, or another top-level promotion like the PFL or MVP. Until then, he’ll have to carry on his winning ways on the regional circuit.

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