Veteran UFC fighter Antonio Rogerio Nogueira achieved a spectacular knockout in his return to boxing, reminiscent of his earlier career success.
At 48 years old, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira defied expectations about age, making a dramatic return to combat sports after a three-year break.
Nogueira faced Brazilian bodybuilder and influencer Fabio Tadalafellas at Fight Music Show 6 in Sao Paulo on Saturday. This was Nogueira`s first exhibition boxing bout since securing a unanimous decision victory in January 2022. His long run in the UFC had concluded previously in July 2020 with a loss to Shogun Rua.
Despite mixed results towards the end of his mixed martial arts career, Nogueira, nearing 50, is still considered a formidable presence. The same competitive spirit that defined his legendary PRIDE FC career was evident in his performance against Tadalafellas.
Nogueira Delivers One-Punch Knockout Against Influencer Opponent
Their fight served as the co-main event of Fight Music Show 6, an event topped by Acelino Freitas vs. Duda Nagle. Following a slow-paced first round between Nogueira and Tadalafellas, “Minotauro” quickly increased the intensity in the second round.
Nogueira swiftly began applying pressure, pushing Tadalafellas back towards the ropes. His opponent appeared overwhelmed by the veteran`s relentless attack. After landing a stunning right hand, Nogueira finished the fight with a decisive left hook to the chin, knocking Tadalafellas unconscious.
This victory brings Nogueira`s exhibition boxing record to 2-0, following his unanimous decision win over Leonardo Guimaraes at the inaugural Fight Music Show event. Prior to these boxing bouts, his most recent win in combat sports was against Sam Alvey in September 2018.
The knockout was also his first finish since the Alvey fight. Nogueira`s final years in the UFC saw him alternate wins and losses, but his notable career included victories over fighters such as Rashad Evans and Tito Ortiz.
Cris Cyborg Also Scores Quick Boxing Knockout
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira wasn`t the only prominent figure to achieve a significant victory in boxing this weekend. Former UFC Women`s Featherweight Champion Cris Cyborg also secured a first-round knockout against Precious Harris-McCray in San Jose.
Following her win, Cyborg called out Claressa Shields, signaling her interest in a potential future boxing match against “The GWOAT”. The two champions have a long-standing rivalry, and a fight between them seems increasingly plausible.
Cyborg is also expected to return to PFL for an MMA fight against Sara Collins, possibly later this summer. Her last mixed martial arts appearance was a victory over Larissa Pacheco in October.
