UFC 260: Francis Ngannou claims heavyweight title with BRUTAL KO of Stipe Miocic to become UFC’s third African champ
FRANCIS NGANNOU is the new UFC heavyweight champion of the world following a stunning second-round KO of Stipe Miocic.
The Cameroonian-born Frenchman rematched Miocic in the main event of UFC 260 in Las Vegas in the early hours of the morning.
Ngannou was dominated by the part-time fire-fighter in their first meeting three years ago at UFC 220.
But the devastating power puncher exacted his revenge with a brutal - second-round KO of the pride of Cleveland.
Unlike their first meeting in Boston, Ngannou adopted a patient and methodical approach.
The Batie bruiser landed a big right hand early in the first but opted against bum-rushing the champion.
That prompted fan favourite Miocic to shoot for a takedown, which was expertly stuffed.
Ngannou then reversed the position and began unloading bombs on the champ, who somehow managed to survive the brutal onslaught to make it to the second.
Ngannou came out more aggressive in the second but was promptly told to be patient by his corner.
The Predator heeded their advice and dropped the attack-shy Miocic with a big jab moments later.
Miocic survived the ensuing barrage and landed a big right hand of his own.
The champ sense blood but ended up walking straight into a beautiful counter left hand that floored him.
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And seconds later, the reign of the greatest heavyweight in UFC history came to an end courtesy of two academic ground strikes.
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Victory over Miocic saw Ngannou become the UFC's third African-born champion, following in the footsteps of Kamaru Usman and Israel Adesanya.
The win capped off a remarkable fairytale story for the soft-spoken power puncher, who was homeless on the streets of Paris just a few years ago.
Moments after his career-defining victory, Ngannou was the subject of a call out from former light-heavyweight king Jon Jones - who is gearing up for his long-awaited move up to heavyweight.
Jones, 33, tweeted: "Let's play baby."
Jones, however, then issued another financial demand to the UFC brass.
He added: "Show me the money."
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Upon learning of Jones' callout, Ngannou said: "I'm ready, any time soon.
"I'll be here to fight in July or August. I'm ready."