Veteran heavyweight contender Derrick Lewis made a definitive statement in the octagon at UFC Nashville, securing a remarkably swift knockout victory. However, it was his immediate actions following the conclusion of the bout that garnered significant attention and discussion.
Just 35 seconds into his matchup against Tallison Teixeira on Saturday, Lewis delivered a fight-ending blow. What followed was a sequence of unconventional post-fight gestures. Lewis proceeded to remove his shorts, perform a mime simulating urination directed towards his opponent`s corner, release his protective cup into the stands, and engage in lively, albeit crude, interactions with the crowd.
Later, Lewis provided a candid explanation for his behavior, particularly the simulated act. He indicated that the gesture was a direct, unapologetic response to what he perceived as disrespectful commentary or `trash talk` emanating from Teixeira`s corner during the lead-up to the fight. His message was a blunt declaration of defiance towards those he believed were antagonizing him.
These post-fight displays have become a hallmark of Lewis`s persona, contributing significantly to his popularity alongside his formidable reputation as a knockout artist. His victory over Teixeira marked his 16th knockout or technical knockout within the promotion, extending his own UFC record in that category and tying him for total finishes with Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, placing him third overall in UFC history.
The conclusion of the fight itself involved a degree of controversy. Referee Jason Herzog intervened to stop the contest, even as Teixeira appeared to be attempting to return to his feet. However, replays indicated Lewis was landing hard punches, and Teixeira`s effort to stand was significantly aided by illegally grabbing the cage fence with both hands.
Lewis did not mince words regarding Teixeira`s unsportsmanlike use of the fence. He expressed his clear disapproval of the maneuver, stating his belief that Teixeira was legitimately hurt regardless of the attempt to stand. Lewis also offered a characteristically blunt assessment of Teixeira`s previously undefeated 8-0 record, suggesting it was compiled against a lower tier of competition. In a moment of dry humor, he remarked on his preference for facing opponents he considers less challenging, employing a rather direct analogy.
Elaborating further at the post-fight press conference, Lewis reiterated his perspective on the stoppage, asserting that the referee was correct to intervene. He felt Teixeira had already been severely impacted by strikes prior to the fence grab, justifying the decision to halt the contest based on his opponent`s compromised state.
Jasper Hawthorne