Yannick Bahati put himself at the top of the record books in one of the world longest standing MMA promotions on Friday – but it wasn’t without controversy.
At Cage Warriors 186 from Indigo at The O2 in London, Bahati (10-7-1) needed just four seconds to finish Charles Joyner (4-2-1) after he opened the light heavyweight contest with a massive right hand that led to the instant knockout. The punch, however, came after the pair seemingly went to touch gloves then the blow came moments thereafter.
Nevertheless, Bahati was elated the organization announced the stoppage set a new mark for the fastest knockout in company history.
Watch the replay of the historic result below (via X):
WOW! 😯 Yannick Bahati with the quickest KO in Cage Warriors history.
Consider the score settled ❌ #CW186 pic.twitter.com/mwns0i9Jdi— Cage Warriors (@CageWarriors) March 21, 2025
“I Beat Rocky’s Record in UFC As Well!” 😜😂
Yannick Bahati reacts to breaking Cage Warriors and UFC history at #CW186 London! pic.twitter.com/NCLdXz7QMU
— Cage Warriors (@CageWarriors) March 21, 2025
Fans did not shower Bahati with the praise one would anticipate after such a lightning-quick knockout. The reaction to his win online was met with heavy criticism of the “dirty” opening glove touch.
Bahati walked away with the win, but it remains to be seen if it will gain him any fans.
Be sure to visit the MMA Junkie Instagram page and YouTube channel to discuss this and more content with fans of combat sports.
