Derrick Lewis just set the Octagon on fire at UFC 291. He took on Rogerio de Lima on the main card of UFC 291 despite being scheduled for a prelim spot previously. However, fans would be grateful that the UFC did so as Lewis just decimated his Brazilian opponent in the very first round, that too with a flying knee. It seems like with the BMF belt on the line in the main event, he took a page out of Jorge Masvidal’s book.
As soon as the bell rang, Lewis flew off his block and landed a huge knee that stunned Rogerio de Lima. Although a rocked de Lima tried his best to recover, Lewis never gave him the opportunity to do so. “The Black Beast” smothered de Lima and did not allow the latter to land even a single strike. Seeing Rogerio de Lima cover himself up, the ref had no other choice but to stop the fight at the 33-second mark of round 1.
Derrick Lewis ladies and gentlemen 😂 pic.twitter.com/Yn0tZ9at1n
— MartialMind 🇳🇬🇺🇲 (@MartialMind1) July 30, 2023
While his performance was certainly noteworthy, what followed afterward will forever remain a legendary moment in UFC history. After the finish, Lewis went down to the mat and did his usual celebration. However, afterward, to the shock of the viewers, Lewis took his pants off and did the DX chop! Joe Rogan and Daniel Cormier in the commentary booth could not stop their laughter seeing Lewis in his briefs and recreating a WWE celebration.
Derrick Lewis is out of contract after his fight at UFC 291
Derrick Lewis came into the fight in the best shape of his life. Hence, fans should not be too surprised to see him throw flying knees. Not only did Lewis drop bombs at UFC 291 with his strikes, but he also dropped some massive news after the fight as well. Speaking to Joe Rogan, he paid homage to his legendary “hot b*lls” moment at UFC 229.
However, what he said later, shocked many. Lewis added, “We’ll see (what’s next). Hopefully, I can get another contract with the UFC. If not, f*ck it. It is what it is.” (h/t via Danny Segura)
While it is apparent Lewis would certainly cherish the opportunity to stay in the UFC, exploring free agency would not be the worst thing for him either. Especially with Francis Ngannou signing for the PFL, fans may finally get to see the rematch between the two in a PFL smart cage. However, it remains to be seen what the future holds for him. But, with a record of 27-11, it is unlikely that UFC will let Derrick Lewis go.
