Michael Johnson turned back the clock earlier tonight (Sat., Dec. 14, 2024) at UFC Tampa LIVE on ESPN2/ESPN+ from inside Amalie Arena in Tampa, Fla., when “Menace” obliterated fellow lightweight Ottman Azaitar with a ridiculous second-round knockout (punch). It was the first knockout finish for Johnson since a stoppage over Alan Patrick back in May 2022.
Despite being 38 years of age, Johnson entered this “Prelims” headliner against Azaitar as the betting favorite. He showed early on why the oddsmakers trusted him to take care of business on Saturday night by tagging Azaitar and keeping him at bay. “Menace” just seemed to possess more power when his shots connected.
Azaitar came out more aggressive in the second round and quickly pressed the action with a fiery exchange inside. “The Bulldozer” landed a nice left hand, but while the fists were flying Johnson connected on an insane right hook that instantly put Azaitar down for the count. Unfortunately for him, Johnson was in position to uncork two violent punches on the ground before the referee made it over.
Check out the video highlights in the above player.
Johnson, who was coming off a decision win over Darrius Flowers his last time out, now has his first UFC win streak since 2018. The veteran lightweight clearly has some gas left in the tank and made it a point to tell UFC brass that he intends to stick around for a long time during his post-fight interview.
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