Francis Ngannou remains heavyweight lineal champion with first-round finish of Phillipe Lins

Making his professional MMA debut in 2013, Francis Ngannou became a monster with obliterating punching force, going on to become UFC heavyweight champion. After departing that promotion as heavyweight champion, Ngannou fought in professional boxing twice, taking then-WBC champion Tyson Fury to the limit before a loss to Anthony Joshua. Ngannou last fought in October 2024, scoring a first-round knockout of Renan Ferreira.

Phillips Lins combines his solid striking with a strong jiu-jitsu base. Lins has competed on a global stage in MMA for over a decade now, which includes one PFL heavyweight championship. Lins comes into this bout on a four-fight win streak, last competing in a March 2024 win over Ion Cutelaba.

Will Ngannou’s power bring him yet another victory? Or will Lins shock the world?

ROUND 1

Ngannou opens with a leg kick. Ngannou stalking. Low kick by Lins. Left-right combination by Ngannou. Lins goes for a takedown. Ngannou puts on the guillotine with his back to the fence. They get off the fence, and Ngannou lands some of his power. Lins goes for another takedown, and he is stuffed. Ngannou gets Lins to his back. Lins locks up his guard.

Lins slowly gets to his feet, but he’s eating right hands from Ngannou. Ngannou with a couple of left hands, followed by a right. Right overhand lands for Lins. Another tie-up here. Knee by Ngannou. Ngannou landing some solid body shots. Lins looking for a takedown. Lins puts Ngannou on the fence now. Ngannou gets off the fence, and Lins swings for the fence. Right hand and LINS GOES OUT!

Ngannou with a Round 1 Knockout!

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