Header Ads Widget

Vera scores quick KO of Cheng for One heavyweight belt

By Ivan Saldajeno

PASAY—Brandon Vera waited eight years for a world title shot.

In just 26 seconds, he is now a world champion.

Vera won the inaugural One Championship heavyweight belt by knocking out Paul Cheng in the main event of the Spirit of Champions card at the Mall of Asia Arena on Friday night.

Vera connected on a right hook and stopped Cheng for good with a left kick to the head.

Referee Olivier Coste called it a fight at the 26-second mark of the very first round.

The former UFC star, whose title opportunity in 2007 was called off due to some disputes, is now the latest Filipino world MMA champion.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno