Francis Ngannou Returns With Violent KO, Two Massive Opponents Emerge
The highly anticipated fight card headlined by the return of Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano also featured the long-awaited return of Francis Ngannou. Entering the bout, many fans were curious to see how Ngannou would look after suffering a brutal knockout loss to Anthony Joshua back in March 2024. By the end of the first round, the former UFC heavyweight champion reminded everyone exactly why he remains one of the scariest punchers in combat sports.
Standing across from him was Philipe Lins, who attempted to survive the early pressure as Ngannou immediately pushed forward with heavy strikes. Lins showed toughness during the opening exchanges and absorbed several hard shots, but Ngannou slowly began breaking him down against the cage with repeated body shots and brutal pressure.
VINTAGE FRANCIS NGANNOU
— Netflix Sports (@netflixsports) May 17, 2026
HE GETS THE FIRST ROUND KO AGAINST PHILIPE LINS #RouseyCarano is LIVE now only on Netflix! pic.twitter.com/zaqgyfbhvS
The finish came moments later when Ngannou uncorked a clean left hook that instantly stopped Lins in round one. The victory marked Ngannou's 14th straight knockout win and quickly became one of the biggest highlights of the night.
After the fight, the conversation immediately shifted toward what could come next.
Promoter Jake Paul openly praised Ngannou following the win and appeared interested in the possibility of a future boxing matchup.
Also sitting cageside was Jon Jones, who addressed a potential showdown with Ngannou but noted he first needs to resolve his UFC contract situation before serious talks could happen.
Francis Ngannou has a message for Jon Jones who's in attendance #RouseyCarano is LIVE now only on Netflix! pic.twitter.com/JyX2zBloNC
— Netflix Sports (@netflixsports) May 17, 2026
Another possible opponent also emerged earlier in the night. Robelis Despaigne scored a brutal knockout victory over former UFC heavyweight champion Junior Dos Santos on the undercard and later mentioned Ngannou as a fighter he would love to face next.
Ngannou appeared interested in the idea, adding yet another intriguing heavyweight matchup to the growing list of possibilities following his explosive return.
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This story was originally published May 16, 2026 at 10:10 PM.