Stipe Miocic looked to cement his status in UFC Heavyweight history Saturday night at UFC 220, but he faced a horrifying task in #1 Francis Ngannou.
The task was one the Ohio native in Miocic was more than ready for. Miocic found success on the feet, wrestling, up against the cage, and on the ground -- virtually anywhere the fight went. Ngannou, tested like this for likely the first time in his career, was a cooked goose from a cardio aspect fairly early on. Although he threatened with his incredible power, he wasn't able to put Miocic down.
A huge Ngannou right overhand punch landed in round three, and motivated Miocic to knee tap a takedown. Miocic followed up with an early fourth round takedown that led to significant ground and pound minutes later. The fifth round saw both men tired, coasting to the finish line.
You can see an excerpt from Fightful's UFC 220 live coverage below.
Round Five: The round begins with Miocic attacking Ngannou with leg kicks, Miocic grabs Ngannou and he gets him against the cage wall. The referee separates the fighters for inactivity, the action resumes with Miocic popping Ngannou with a step in left. Ngannou starts taking a few swings at Miocic, Miocic grabs Ngannou and he gets him against the cage wall as the round ends.
Fightful scores the round 10-9 for Miocic (Final Score: 50-45 for Miocic)
Official Result: Stipe Miocic def. #1 Francis Ngannou by unanimous decision (50-44, 50-44, 50-44) to retain the UFC Heavyweight Title
Miocic went into Boston tied with Brock Lesnar, Tim Sylvia and Randy Couture for most consecutive successful heavyweight title defenses at two. The mark has been somewhat of a cement wall that no UFC Heavyweight has been able to bust through. Miocic is the first man to ever successfully defend the UFC Heavyweight Championship three times in a row. His regin will also pass one of Randy Couture's next week for third longest of all time. Providing He not fight in the next three months, he'll pass Lesnar and move into second place.
You can see Fightful's UFC 220 live coverage at at this link, and our post-show podcast at this link.
