In a matchup of two ranked light heavyweights, Jimi Manuwa took on Ovince Saint Preux at UFC 204: Bisping vs. Henderson 2 in Manchester, England. Manuwa had lost by KO to Anthony Johnson in his last fight, while OSP lost his short-notice bout vs. Jon Jones at UFC 197. This showdown was important for both men in terms of the LHW rankings and for avoiding a dreaded losing skid.Kicks exchanged early by both men, then OSP walked Manuwa back towards the fence and into a clinch. OSP with several knees to the body. Manuwa answered back with the same move, then they separated. Leg kick by Manuwa connected flush. Good knees to the body and then to the head by Manuwa. OSP waded forward and Manuwa had his neck held by Saint Preux. With Manuwa getting the better of the stand-up exchanges, OSP went for the takedown and got it. Some ground-and-pound by OSP and then Manuwa got back to his feet. OSP scored another takedown and Manuwa dropped for a guillotine, which OSP escaped, and then advanced to Jimi's back. Left hands by OSP before Manuwa stood back up to end the 1st round.
Good left hook by Manuwa in the first 30 seconds of round 2, followed by a hard body kick. OSP shot for a takedown, then Manuwa sprawled and had a headlock. Manuwa avoided getting taken down in the clinch and returned to striking with his foe. Two left hooks to the body by Manuwa landed, as did a leg kick. Flying knee attempt by Manuwa didn't find a home but OSP was being soundly outstruck in the first half of round 2. Big body shot and a right hand dropped OSP, who got back up but was in big trouble. Massive left hook by Manuwa crushed OSP and he went out cold. What a spectacular finish by Manuwa.
Official result: Jimi Manuwa def. Ovince Saint Preux via KO (punches) at 2:38 of round 2