Who Knocked Ngannou? Unpacking the Power, Precision, and Psychological Warfare in Francis Ngannou's Fights

The Unstoppable Force Meets Unyielding Defense: Who Knocked Ngannou?

Francis Ngannou, a name synonymous with sheer, unadulterated power in the heavyweight division, has captivated fight fans worldwide. His reputation as a knockout artist is legendary, with each thunderous punch capable of ending a fight in an instant. But the question that often echoes through the MMA community, and indeed, within the minds of his opponents, is more nuanced than a simple win or loss: who knocked Ngannou out, and how was such a feat achieved against a man who seemed almost impervious to damage? This isn't just about recording a victory; it's about understanding the strategic brilliance and the mental fortitude required to overcome a physical specimen like "The Predator."

My own fascination with Ngannou's career began long before his title reign. I remember watching his early fights, mesmerized by the raw athleticism and the frightening concussive force behind his strikes. It felt like watching a force of nature unleashed. However, the sport of mixed martial arts is a complex tapestry of skill, strategy, and unpredictability. Even the most dominant figures can be caught, outmaneuvered, or simply overcome by an opponent who brings a specific, well-honed game plan. So, to truly answer "who knocked Ngannou," we need to delve deep into the fights where he didn't emerge victorious, analyzing the techniques, the circumstances, and the psychological dynamics at play.

The narrative surrounding Francis Ngannou is often dominated by his incredible knockout power. And rightfully so. His resume is littered with highlight-reel finishes that have cemented his status as one of the most feared strikers in MMA history. But the question of who has *knocked him out* is a critical one, not just for historical record-keeping, but for understanding the evolution of the heavyweight division and the strategic approaches that can be successful against seemingly insurmountable physical advantages. It’s a question that probes the boundaries of human resilience and the ever-present possibility of an upset in the unpredictable world of combat sports.

The St. Louis Stunner: Derrick Lewis and the Art of Counter-Striking

The fight that most vividly comes to mind when considering who has managed to stop Francis Ngannou is his bout against Derrick Lewis at UFC 226. This was a highly anticipated clash, a veritable showdown between two of the hardest-hitting heavyweights on the planet. The expectation was a brutal, explosive exchange, a battle of who could land the definitive blow first. However, what unfolded was a tactical chess match, or perhaps more accurately, a tense standoff, where caution often overshadowed aggression. Lewis, known for his own devastating power, employed a strategy that, while perhaps not overtly exciting, proved incredibly effective.

In this particular fight, Ngannou’s offensive output was noticeably subdued. He seemed hesitant to commit fully to his powerful strikes, perhaps wary of Lewis’s own counter-punching ability. Lewis, on the other hand, was patient. He didn’t rush in, allowing Ngannou to dictate the pace to some extent, but he was always ready. The turning point, or rather, the moment that sealed the fight, came in the third round. Ngannou, attempting to find an opening, moved forward, and Lewis, with impeccable timing, unleashed a perfectly timed counter-punch that landed flush on Ngannou's chin. The impact wasn't a devastating, lights-out K.O. in the traditional sense of Ngannou’s own finishes, but it was enough to momentarily stun Ngannou. Following this, Lewis didn't press aggressively, instead opting for a few follow-up shots that were enough for the referee to step in and stop the fight. While Ngannou wasn't rendered unconscious, the stoppage was due to strikes, and Lewis was the fighter who landed the decisive blows that led to that outcome. This victory for Lewis showcased the effectiveness of patience and precise counter-striking against an opponent who relies heavily on overwhelming power. It was a masterclass in exploiting an opponent’s tendencies without necessarily matching their raw aggression.

What’s crucial to understand here is that Ngannou, at that stage of his career, was still developing his tactical awareness. He was accustomed to walking through adversity and overwhelming opponents with sheer force. Lewis, however, had a different kind of experience. He understood that against a fighter like Ngannou, a measured approach, looking for the opportune moment to strike, could be more effective than a head-on collision. Lewis's victory wasn't about out-powering Ngannou; it was about out-thinking him in that specific moment and executing a clean counter. This fight serves as a vital data point in understanding the vulnerabilities, however few, within Ngannou’s formidable arsenal. It highlights that even the most fearsome power can be neutralized with the right strategy and flawless execution.

The Strategic Implications of the Lewis Fight

The Derrick Lewis fight was more than just a loss for Francis Ngannou; it was a crucial learning experience that undoubtedly shaped his future training and fight preparation. The analysis of this bout reveals several key strategic implications:

The Danger of Counter-Strikes: Lewis’s victory underscored the significant threat posed by precise counter-striking against an aggressive, forward-moving opponent. Ngannou, when not afforded the space to generate maximum force, can be vulnerable to well-timed counters.
Patience as a Weapon: Lewis’s willingness to wait for the right moment, rather than engaging in a wild slugfest, proved to be a winning strategy. This contrasts with the typical Ngannou opponent who often feels compelled to meet fire with fire.
Tactical Adjustments: The fight highlighted a period where Ngannou was perhaps less adept at adapting his strategy mid-fight, especially when his initial approach wasn't yielding the desired results. This is something he has demonstrably worked on since.
Mental Warfare: The prolonged stand-off in the fight, with both fighters seemingly hesitant to commit, also played a psychological game. Lewis’s calmness and precision in the decisive moment demonstrated a higher level of mental composure under pressure.

This fight was a stark reminder that in MMA, power alone isn't always sufficient. Technical skill, strategic intelligence, and the mental fortitude to execute a game plan under duress are equally, if not more, important. For Ngannou, it was a wake-up call that the path to dominance required more than just brute strength; it demanded a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics of combat.

The Undisputed Champion: Stipe Miocic and the Art of Tactical Domination

While Francis Ngannou’s loss to Derrick Lewis was a tactical defeat, his two encounters with Stipe Miocic presented a different kind of challenge. Miocic, often lauded as the greatest heavyweight champion in UFC history, didn't necessarily "knock out" Ngannou in the conventional sense of a single, fight-ending blow. Instead, he employed a strategy of sustained pressure, tactical grappling, and intelligent striking that ultimately overwhelmed and defeated Ngannou on two separate occasions. The first fight, at UFC 220, saw Miocic secure a dominant decision victory, showcasing a masterful game plan.

In their first meeting, Miocic recognized Ngannou's immense power and his tendency to rely on devastating strikes. Instead of engaging Ngannou in a stand-up war, Miocic took the fight to the ground. He utilized his superior wrestling and grappling skills to repeatedly take Ngannou down, control him on the mat, and inflict damage through ground and pound and submission attempts. This strategy served multiple purposes: it nullified Ngannou's striking threat, exhausted him physically, and chipped away at his will to fight. Ngannou, while possessing incredible strength, wasn't as polished in his defensive grappling at that stage, and Miocic exploited this weakness masterfully. The result was a clear decision win for Miocic, a tactical masterpiece that demonstrated how to beat a physically superior opponent through skill and strategy.

The second fight, at UFC 260, was a different narrative but with a similar outcome, although Ngannou did manage to secure a highlight-reel knockout in the rematch. However, the question we're exploring is about who knocked Ngannou out or secured a definitive stoppage. In their first bout, Miocic didn’t achieve a KO, but he decisively won the fight by controlling every aspect and leaving Ngannou with no viable offense. The significance of this victory lies in the strategic blueprint it provided: neutralize the power, impose your own strengths, and grind out a win. Miocic proved that against Ngannou, a well-executed grappling game plan could be the key to victory, demonstrating a level of tactical superiority that transcended raw power.

Miocic's Blueprint: A Strategic Masterclass

Stipe Miocic’s performances against Francis Ngannou offer a profound insight into how to dismantle a seemingly invincible force. His strategy was not about matching Ngannou’s power but about systematically dismantling his strengths and exploiting his weaknesses. Here's a breakdown of Miocic’s approach:

Ground Dominance: Miocic’s primary weapon was his wrestling and jiu-jitsu. He consistently secured takedowns, preventing Ngannou from utilizing his stand-up prowess.
Control and Damage: Once on the ground, Miocic excelled at maintaining control and inflicting damage through ground and pound. This not only scored points but also drained Ngannou’s energy reserves.
Pacing and Conditioning: By controlling the fight on the ground, Miocic dictated the pace, forcing Ngannou into exhausting defensive positions. This highlighted the importance of cardio and stamina in a prolonged bout against a physically imposing opponent.
Nullifying the Power: The most critical aspect of Miocic’s strategy was the complete nullification of Ngannou’s knockout power. By keeping the fight on the mat, Miocic ensured Ngannou’s most dangerous weapons were rendered ineffective.

Miocic’s victories over Ngannou serve as a testament to the fact that in MMA, technical skill, strategic planning, and physical conditioning can often overcome raw, untamed power. He provided a detailed manual for opponents looking to challenge Ngannou, proving that the "baddest man on the planet" could be systematically defeated through intelligent application of mixed martial arts principles.

The Psychological Game: More Than Just Physicality

When we ask "who knocked Ngannou," it’s essential to consider the psychological dimension of fighting. Francis Ngannou, despite his immense physical presence, is human. The pressure of being a perceived invincible force, the weight of expectation, and the mental fortitude of his opponents all play a significant role. The fighters who have found success against him, particularly Lewis and Miocic, understood that the mental game was just as crucial as the physical one.

In the case of Derrick Lewis, his calm demeanor and calculated patience were key. He didn't appear intimidated by Ngannou’s aura. He stuck to his game plan, waiting for his opening. This psychological resilience is something that can chip away at even the most confident fighter. For Ngannou, facing an opponent who isn’t immediately overwhelmed can be disorienting. It forces him to second-guess his usual approach and adapt to a less predictable dynamic.

Similarly, Stipe Miocic’s unwavering confidence and tactical brilliance instilled a sense of control. He wasn't trying to match Ngannou’s power; he was systematically executing his plan. This demonstration of superior skill and strategic vision can be incredibly demoralizing for an opponent. When Ngannou realized he couldn't land his power shots and was being controlled, the mental toll would inevitably mount. The feeling of being outmatched in terms of skill and strategy, despite possessing a physical advantage, is a powerful psychological weapon.

Mental Fortitude Under Pressure

The psychological aspects of fighting Ngannou are multifaceted:

Perception of Invincibility: Ngannou's reputation precedes him. Opponents often enter the cage with a heightened sense of fear, which can lead to cautiousness or, conversely, a desperate attempt to land a lucky punch.
Opponent's Mindset: Fighters like Lewis and Miocic who approached Ngannou with a clear plan and unwavering belief in their strategy were able to bypass the intimidation factor.
Ngannou's Own Pressure: As the perceived favorite and the most dangerous striker, Ngannou also carries the pressure to perform and finish. If a fight doesn't go according to his plan, that pressure can become a burden.
Adaptability vs. Game Plan: The ability to adapt mentally when a fight deviates from the game plan is crucial. Fighters who can adjust their strategy and remain composed are more likely to succeed.

The mental battlefield is as significant as the physical one. Understanding and exploiting an opponent's psychological state, while maintaining one's own mental resilience, is often the differentiator in high-stakes matchups like those involving Francis Ngannou.

The Rematch: Ciryl Gane and the Unfolding Evolution

The most recent chapter in the question of who could "knock out" Ngannou, or at least defeat him decisively, involves his fight against Ciryl Gane. While Ngannou ultimately won this fight via unanimous decision, and Gane’s performance was largely strategic and defensive, it’s important to analyze the dynamics that led to this outcome and how it adds to the narrative of Ngannou’s career. Gane, a highly technical and elusive striker, employed a game plan aimed at out-maneuvering Ngannou and avoiding his devastating power.

Gane, much like some of Ngannou’s previous opponents, recognized the danger of standing toe-to-toe with "The Predator." His strategy was to utilize his superior footwork, movement, and striking accuracy to chip away at Ngannou from a distance. He employed a lot of lateral movement, darting in with combinations and quickly moving out of Ngannou's punching range. This approach was designed to frustrate Ngannou, make him miss, and tire him out. For much of the fight, Gane was successful in implementing this strategy. He landed cleaner shots and controlled the pace with his movement. However, Ngannou, in his own evolution, showed incredible patience and resilience.

The key moment, and the one that ultimately shifted the tide, wasn't a knockout blow in the traditional sense from Ngannou, but rather his ability to eventually corner Gane and impose his physicality. Ngannou managed to close the distance, utilize his strength in the clinch, and, crucially, land a powerful shot that sent Gane to the canvas. While Gane was not "knocked out" cold in the way some fighters are, the knockdown was significant and visibly hurt him. Ngannou followed up with ground and pound, forcing Gane into a defensive posture. The fight then transitioned to Ngannou utilizing his wrestling and control to solidify his victory. So, in this instance, Ngannou himself delivered the most impactful offensive moment, a powerful strike leading to a knockdown that dictated the fight’s trajectory, demonstrating his own evolving skillset and ability to find ways to win even against highly elusive opponents.

Gane's Strategic Approach and Ngannou's Adaptation

Ciryl Gane's fight against Francis Ngannou offers valuable insights:

Elusiveness as a Tactic: Gane’s strategy was a testament to the effectiveness of movement and evasion against a power puncher. He aimed to make Ngannou expend energy chasing him.
Technical Striking vs. Raw Power: Gane showcased superior technical striking, landing precise shots. This strategy, while effective in many fights, faced a different challenge against Ngannou's sheer force.
Ngannou's Growth: The fight highlighted Ngannou's significant growth. He demonstrated improved patience, better defensive awareness, and the ability to adapt his game plan, even incorporating wrestling to secure a dominant win.
The Knockdown Factor: Ngannou’s ability to land a significant blow, leading to a knockdown, was the decisive offensive moment in the fight, proving that even against elusive strikers, his power remains a constant threat.

The Gane fight, therefore, doesn't directly answer "who knocked Ngannou out," but it shows Ngannou's increasing dominance and his ability to overcome sophisticated strategies with a combination of evolving skills and his inherent power. It cemented his status as a champion who could adapt and find ways to win against diverse styles.

The Question of "Knocked Out": Defining the Term in MMA

When we discuss "who knocked Ngannou out," it's important to have a clear understanding of what constitutes a knockout in mixed martial arts. It’s not always about a fighter being rendered completely unconscious. The official definition of a knockout (KO) or technical knockout (TKO) in MMA can be multifaceted:

Knockout (KO): A fighter is rendered unconscious due to strikes. This is the most definitive form of stoppage.
Technical Knockout (TKO): A fight is stopped by the referee, ringside physician, or the corner due to a fighter being unable to intelligently defend themselves. This can occur if a fighter is dazed, taking excessive damage without defending, or suffering an injury.

In Francis Ngannou’s case, the fight against Derrick Lewis at UFC 226 resulted in a TKO. While Ngannou wasn't unconscious, he was struck decisively and, by the referee's judgment, was unable to intelligently defend himself, leading to the stoppage. So, in the context of MMA, Lewis did achieve a stoppage victory via strikes, which is often colloquially referred to as a knockout. This distinction is crucial for accurately assessing fight outcomes.

My personal take on this is that the term "knockout" in MMA has a broader application than just unconsciousness. A TKO signifies a fighter’s inability to continue fighting safely, which is a direct result of strikes. Therefore, when assessing Ngannou's career, the Lewis fight stands as the primary instance where an opponent secured a stoppage victory against him through strikes. It’s a testament to Lewis’s timing and precision in that particular moment.

Understanding Stoppages in MMA

To further clarify, let’s consider the nuances of stoppages:

Referee's Discretion: The referee plays a vital role in determining if a fighter is intelligently defending themselves. This is a subjective judgment call, but one based on observable actions (or lack thereof).
Corner Stoppages (Verbal/Tap): A corner can throw in the towel, or a fighter can tap out due to strikes, submission, or injury.
Doctor Stoppages: A ringside physician can stop a fight due to a cut, swelling, or other injury that poses a risk to the fighter.

In Ngannou's loss to Lewis, it was a referee stoppage due to strikes, falling under the TKO category. This is the most accurate technical description of how that fight concluded. Understanding these definitions helps in accurately answering the question of who has stopped Francis Ngannou in his career.

The Future of Ngannou's Power: What's Next?

Francis Ngannou has since transitioned to the sport of boxing, a different discipline with its own set of dynamics. His foray into boxing against Tyson Fury was a monumental event, showcasing his power in a new arena. While he ultimately lost that fight on the scorecards, he achieved something remarkable by knocking down one of the greatest boxers of his generation. This further solidifies his reputation as a fighter capable of delivering devastating blows, regardless of the sport.

The question of "who knocked Ngannou out" remains predominantly tied to his MMA career. His ventures into boxing, while significant, operate under different rules and require different skill sets. However, his power remains his most potent weapon. Even in his loss to Anthony Joshua, a devastating knockout defeat, Ngannou showed flashes of his power early on before succumbing to Joshua's superior boxing prowess.

My perspective is that Ngannou's legacy is undeniably built on his ability to inflict damage. The fighters who have managed to overcome him have done so by employing specific strategies that either neutralized his power or exploited tactical or technical weaknesses. His journey continues, and it’s always compelling to watch how he adapts and evolves, whether in MMA or boxing.

Key Takeaways from Ngannou's Career

Reflecting on Francis Ngannou's career, several key takeaways emerge regarding the question of who has stopped him:

Derrick Lewis: The primary answer for a stoppage victory via strikes (TKO) in MMA.
Stipe Miocic: While not a KO/TKO, Miocic decisively defeated Ngannou twice through strategic dominance and grappling, showcasing a blueprint for nullifying his power.
Strategic Nuance: Success against Ngannou hinges on a well-defined strategy that accounts for his power. This often involves counter-striking, grappling, or elusiveness.
Evolution of Ngannou: Ngannou has shown remarkable growth, improving his tactical awareness and ability to adapt, making him an even more formidable opponent.

The story of Francis Ngannou is one of immense talent, continuous development, and the ever-present drama of combat sports. The question of who has bested him is a testament to the challenges he presents and the skill required to overcome him.

Frequently Asked Questions About Francis Ngannou's Fights

Who has legitimately knocked Francis Ngannou out cold in MMA?

As of my last update, the fighter who most directly fits the description of stopping Francis Ngannou via strikes in MMA is Derrick Lewis. At UFC 226, Lewis secured a TKO victory over Ngannou in the third round. While Ngannou was not rendered unconscious in the traditional sense of a "lights out" knockout, he was struck decisively by Lewis and was unable to intelligently defend himself, leading the referee to stop the fight. This is classified as a Technical Knockout (TKO). It's crucial to understand the distinction between a KO and a TKO in MMA. A KO typically implies unconsciousness, whereas a TKO signifies that a fighter is unable to continue fighting safely due to the strikes they are receiving, even if they remain conscious. Therefore, Derrick Lewis is the fighter credited with the stoppage victory against Ngannou in their MMA bout.

It's important to note that Ngannou has had a career marked by incredibly dominant performances where *he* has delivered knockouts. However, when examining who has achieved a definitive stoppage against him, Lewis's performance stands out. While Stipe Miocic defeated Ngannou twice in their MMA encounters, his victories were by decision, not by knockout or TKO. Miocic’s strategy was one of tactical domination and control, nullifying Ngannou’s power rather than knocking him out. This strategic approach highlights that defeating Ngannou doesn't always require a single, fight-ending blow, but can be achieved through sustained control and out-fighting.

How did Stipe Miocic defeat Francis Ngannou in their fights?

Stipe Miocic defeated Francis Ngannou twice in their MMA bouts, with his first victory at UFC 220 being a dominant unanimous decision. Miocic’s strategy was not to meet Ngannou’s power head-on in a striking battle, but rather to employ a masterful game plan focused on wrestling and grappling. Recognizing Ngannou’s immense power in his hands, Miocic successfully used his takedowns to bring the fight to the ground. Once there, he controlled Ngannou, stifled his offense, and inflicted damage through ground and pound. This approach served multiple critical purposes. Firstly, it completely nullified Ngannou’s most dangerous weapon – his striking power. By keeping Ngannou on his back, he was unable to generate the force needed for his signature knockout blows. Secondly, it exhausted Ngannou. Maintaining a defensive posture on the ground, especially against a skilled grappler like Miocic, is incredibly taxing. This led to Ngannou’s energy levels diminishing throughout the fight.

Miocic's conditioning and fight IQ were on full display. He wasn't trying to win with a quick knockout; he was systematically dismantling a physically superior opponent through technical skill and strategic execution. He dictated the pace and the location of the fight, ensuring that Ngannou was never comfortable or able to unleash his full potential. His second fight against Ngannou was a closer affair, eventually ending with Ngannou securing a knockout victory, but the first fight was a stark example of how a superior tactical approach, particularly in grappling, could overcome raw power. Miocic’s performance against Ngannou is often cited as a prime example of strategic game planning in MMA, demonstrating that you don't always have to out-strike a power puncher; you can simply take away their ability to strike effectively.

What is Francis Ngannou's fighting style, and how does it relate to him being "knocked out"?

Francis Ngannou's fighting style is predominantly characterized by his exceptional knockout power and explosive athleticism. He is a striker, renowned for his devastating right hand, powerful kicks, and aggressive forward pressure. His style is built around overwhelming opponents with brute force and concussive strikes. He often walks opponents down, cutting off the cage and looking for the opportune moment to unleash a fight-ending combination. His sheer physicality, combined with his athleticism, makes him a truly terrifying prospect for any heavyweight fighter. This style, while incredibly effective for securing wins by knockout, can also present certain vulnerabilities, particularly against fighters with strong defensive capabilities, excellent timing for counter-strikes, or superior grappling skills.

When discussing him being "knocked out," his aggressive style means he often finds himself in positions where he's closing the distance and trading punches. This is precisely where a well-timed counter-strike from an opponent can be most effective. Fighters like Derrick Lewis, who are also powerful strikers with excellent timing, can exploit this by waiting for Ngannou to commit to an attack and then landing a precise counter. Furthermore, his reliance on striking means that if an opponent can successfully neutralize his striking threat by taking him down and controlling him on the ground, as Stipe Miocic did, his power becomes irrelevant. The key to overcoming Ngannou lies not necessarily in matching his power, but in deviating from his preferred fight style, either by out-striking him with technical precision and evasiveness or by taking him out of his element through wrestling and grappling. His evolution as a fighter has seen him develop more defensive awareness and even incorporate wrestling into his offensive game, making him a more well-rounded threat and harder to strategize against.

Did Francis Ngannou ever tap out due to strikes?

No, Francis Ngannou has never tapped out due to strikes in his professional MMA career. Tapping out signifies submission, typically in response to a joint lock or a chokehold. While Ngannou has suffered losses, including the TKO to Derrick Lewis, his career record does not show any instances of him submitting to an opponent due to strikes or any other reason. His resilience and ability to absorb damage, even in losing efforts, are notable. Even in fights where he has been overwhelmed or controlled, he has typically fought until the final bell or until the referee has stopped the fight due to him being unable to intelligently defend himself, rather than submitting.

The concept of tapping out to strikes is unusual in MMA, as fighters typically tap to submissions or to indicate they are verbally submitting due to an injury or overwhelming control that they cannot escape. Stoppages due to strikes are generally handled by the referee waving off the fight (TKO) or the fighter being rendered unconscious (KO). Ngannou’s fighting spirit has consistently been that he fights until the very end. His losses have come via TKO (Lewis) or decision (Miocic in their first fight), and in boxing, he has faced definitive knockout losses to Anthony Joshua. However, a submission, whether due to strikes or a submission hold, is not part of his fight record. This speaks to his toughness and his determination to either fight out of a bad situation or accept a stoppage from the officials rather than give up verbally or physically via a tap.

What is the significance of Ngannou’s boxing matches in relation to his MMA "knockouts"?

Francis Ngannou's foray into professional boxing, particularly his bout against Tyson Fury and subsequently against Anthony Joshua, holds significant relevance when discussing his power and the context of his "knockouts," even though the rules and dynamics differ from MMA. In his boxing debut against Tyson Fury, Ngannou, an MMA fighter making his professional boxing debut, managed to knock down "The Gypsy King," one of the most dominant heavyweight boxers of his era. This was a monumental achievement, demonstrating that Ngannou's power transcends disciplines. It proved that his raw, concussive force could indeed translate into significant impacts even against elite boxers. The fact that he put a reigning boxing champion on the canvas validated his reputation as one of the hardest hitters in combat sports history.

However, his subsequent fight against Anthony Joshua highlighted the technical disparities and the dangers of facing a pure boxer. While Ngannou showed moments of power early on, Joshua, a seasoned and technically superior boxer, was able to land his own devastating shots and eventually secure a knockout victory over Ngannou. This boxing loss, while definitive, doesn't negate the impact of his MMA stoppages or his ability to knock down a world-class boxer. Instead, it contextualizes his power within the framework of different combat sports. In MMA, his power is often amplified by the availability of various techniques (kicks, knees, elbows, grappling), allowing him to create openings and inflict damage in ways not possible in boxing. The boxing matches serve as a testament to his pure punching power but also illustrate that mastering a new discipline with different technical demands requires a different set of skills. They don't change the fact that Derrick Lewis is the primary individual credited with a stoppage via strikes against Ngannou in MMA, but they do underscore the pervasive threat of Ngannou's power across the combat sports landscape.