A new fastest knockout record was achieved at Cage Warriors 186, but the victory is surrounded by controversy.
During the Friday event in London, Yannick Bahati secured a knockout against Charles Joyner in just four seconds, setting a new promotional record. While the speed of the knockout impressed the crowd, scrutiny of the fight reveals contentious actions, including a questionable glove touch and Bahati grabbing his opponent`s glove before delivering the knockout blow.
Experienced MMA fighter Tom Lawlor shared his opinion after viewing the footage, calling Bahati`s actions a “chump move.”
“Yannick Bahati faked a glove touch, then restrained his opponent’s hands and unleashed a powerful right hand for the 4-second KO,” Lawlor commented.
“Technically legal, but definitely a cheap tactic.”
Bahati has addressed the criticism he has received since his Cage Warriors victory, his first win in nearly five years, in a post on his Instagram profile.
“There was no fake glove touch from me, only hard work,” Bahati stated. “I offered a glove touch, but he didn`t respond, so I immediately executed my game plan. I was focused and determined to achieve my goal for my sons.”
Bahati and Joyner previously fought in November at Cage Warriors 181, resulting in a split draw via technical decision.
