Israel Adesanya's UFC career is hanging in the balance after he was sensationally knocked out by bourgening star Nassourdine Imavov.
Only 30 seconds into the second round of their fight at UFC Fight Night in Saudi Arabia, Adesanya hit the canvas after he copped a powerful right hand.
Vulnerable, the 35-year-old wore a flurry of shots from Imavov before the referee called off the fight.
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Nassourdine Imavov lands the killer blow on Israel Adesanya in the second round. Zuffa LLC
"One shot to kill a legend. That was unbelievable," commentator John Gooden quipped.
Adesanya looked less than impressed the fight had been called off. He also claimed he'd been poked in the eye only moment before the decisive blow was landed.
"I said it all week long, that I was in perfect shape, and I proved it tonight," Imavov said through an interpreter after the fight.
"I proved I was a better striker and now, the real bonus for me is going to be fighting for the belt.
"There is no doubt I am ready for the belt. Four victories in one year – the record speaks for itself."
Nassourdine Imavov celebrates after the referee ended the fight. Zuffa LLC
Imavov's career record now stands at 16-4.
On the other side, it was Adesanya's third-straight loss. His career stats now sit at 24-5.
Speaking on the UFC post-fight show, Adesanya was non-committal on his future in the sport.
"I have to chill and then think about things," he said.
"I will relax first for a little bit, just help the teammates who have fights coming up and see what I want to do.
"I was going to do that anyway, but now I'm forced to. Shoutout to Nassourdine for that."
