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'Freak of nature' knocks out UFC great in 26-second beatdown

Francis Ngannou has ended Cain Velasquez’s comeback in a shocking 26-second fight at UFC Phoenix.

Velasquez, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, stepped back into the cage for the first time since July 2016.

But he was done almost immediately as Ngannou chased the 36-year-old and easily ended the fight.

“I didn’t even realise what happened. It was very fast. I feel good, I feel good,” the 32-year-old said.

“I’m just here now to have fun, just relax and enjoy my fight.”

Francis Ngannou knocked out Cain Velasquez in 26 seconds. Pic: UFC
Francis Ngannou knocked out Cain Velasquez in 26 seconds. Pic: UFC

Velasquez, considered one of the promotion’s greatest heavyweights and a future Hall of Famer, appeared to injure his knee after being collected by Ngannou’s heavy punches.

The victor was jeered by the Phoenix crowd for his win over the Arizona local, who called for the audience to applaud his rival.

“Give it up to Francis. He came in here and did his job,” Velasquez said.

The fight was Ngannou’s second successive victory under a minute after November’s 45-second TKO win over Curtis Blaydes.