Leading into the two title fights headlining UFC 277 was a heavyweight clash between No. 5 ranked Derrick Lewis and No. 11 ranked Sergei Pavlovich.
Pavlovich entered the bout riding a three-fight winning streak with each ending in a finish. Of course, Lewis holds the record for the most knockouts in UFC history. On Saturday, it was Pavlovich that scored the quick finish.
The fight lasted less than a minute. Lewis tried to close the distance and get inside of Pavlovich’s reach but was met with punches. A right hand hurt Lewis. After absorbing an uppercut, Lewis retreated. Pavlovich went in pursuit and continued to land punches.
Lewis went down on all fours and referee Dan Miragliotta stopped the fight as Lewis was getting back to his feet. Lewis immediately protested the stoppage and the crowd booed in disappointment.
UFC 277 Live Results: Julianna Peña vs. Amanda Nunes 2
Pavlovich extended his winning streak to four consecutive fights and will likely move into the Top 5 heavyweight rankings.
“I was ready to punch him for five rounds, for three rounds. It doesn’t matter. I was ready for this fight, and I worked really hard to be here” Pavlovich said over the boos of those in attendance.
“I did my job. I’m very happy with my performance,” Pavlovich said when commentator Joe Rogan suggested that the fight was stopped prematurely.
UFC 277 Results: Sergei Pavlovich stops Derrick Lewis in the first