Aubin-Mercier, Kowalkiewicz kick off UFC 223 with big wins

KOWALKIEWICZ vs HERRIGBROOKLYN - Strawweight contenders Karolina Kowalkiewicz and Felice Herrig delivered a high-intensity three-rounder in UFC 223 prelim action at Barclays Center Saturday night, with Kowalkiewicz emerging victorious via split decision.There was no break in the action in the opening round, with most of the first frame taking place on the feet before a furious ground exchange only interrupted by the horn.With the crowd chanting her name, Kowalkiewicz (12-2) began to pull away in