CRIS CYBORG won a decisive first-round KO win over Sinead Kvanagh to keep the Bellator women’s featherweight title.
Cyborg, a mixed martial arts legend, fought Kavanagh in the main event at Bellator 271 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood on Saturday morning.
The Brazilian was a big favourite for her title defense over SBG Ireland's standout. She entered her maiden Bellator title fight with a win streak of two.
In just under a minute and a half, her hopes of becoming the first Irish champion of the promotion were dashed.
It was not surprising that Slick boxer Kavanagh chose to trade with Cyborg, a heavy-hitting Cyborg.
However, KO was floored by a powerful counter right hand from the champion before she was finally defeated by a series academic hammer fists.
The Cyborg, 36-year-old, stated in a post-fight interview that she had worked hard to prepare for the fight. She chuckled, "I'm sorry to all my team. I didn't do what we planned!"
"I knew that she was more of an striker so I had the chance to go to my takedowns, and then go to my ground games.
"But, I said that I wanted to feel her a little in the stand up. I'm excited to get the knockout.
"I requested Cat Zingano as my next request, but I'll let Scott Coker handle it." "I don't pick any opponents."
Cyborg, a former champ in UFC, has defended her 145lb belt three times since she reached the top of the division last January.
Bellator is running out of options for the MMA legend, but undefeated agent Kayla Harrison - who was cageside during the fight - may be a potential opponent.
Cyborg stated: "Kayla! Thanks for coming to fights. You're very appreciated, you know.
"I'm here and if you would like to fight me one day, that would make a great fight.
"But Ali Abdelaziz Harrison's manager will need to speak to the promotion to make it happen."
Bellator 271 results
Cris Cyborg def. Sinead Kvanagh via knockouts (punches) Round 1, 1:32
Linton Vassell def. Tyrell Fortune via split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)
Aaron Pico def. Justin Gonzales via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)
Arlene Blencowe def. Pam Sorenson via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
Prelims
Steve Mowry wins. Rakim Cleveland via submission (Kimura) - Round 1, 3:28
Bruna Ellen def. Desiree Yanez via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Roman Faraldo def. Robert Turnquest via knockout (flying leg) Round 1, 1:17
Cody Law def. Colton Hamm via knockout elbows - Round 1, 4 :21
Valerie Loureda def. Taylor Turner via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27)
Waldo Cortes-Acosta def. Muhammed DeReese via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Ethan Hughes def. Mahmoud Sebie TKO (punches) - Round 3, 4:05
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