'Bride-to-be' Ko Seok-hyun, unanimous decision loss to Jean Paul against expectations [UFC]

*This content was translated by AI.

'Prospective groom' Ko Seok-hyun (33) fought well but suffered a decision loss in disappointment.

On the 19th (Korean time), Ko Seok-hyun competed at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA, for the 'UFC Fight Night: Du Plessis vs. Usman' welterweight (77.1kg) bout against Jean Paul Lebosnoyani (27·USA). All three judges scored the fight 29-28 in favor of Lebosnoyani, resulting in a unanimous decision loss for Ko.

After competing in Dana White's Contender Series (DWCS) in 2024 under UFC Chairman Dana White, Ko Seok-hyun made his UFC debut and secured two consecutive victories last year by defeating Evan Elliott and Phil Ro using wrestling as his primary weapon.

Riding high on momentum, a match against Jacoby Smith was scheduled for February, but the bout was canceled due to a Galbi bone injury, leading to this fight after five months.

Ahead of the fight, Ko Seok-hyun expressed confidence, stating, "My condition is excellent, and I don't think there's anything to worry about." He added, "Seeing my opponent in person has boosted my confidence even more. I will bring home a victory tomorrow. Fighting!"

Having changed his nickname from 'Korean Tyson' to 'Technical,' he remarked, "Rather than overthinking my opponent, what matters most is my growth as a fighter. All UFC fighters are strong, so I want to focus on myself." He also set his sights on securing a finish this time, noting, "I haven't achieved a finish in the UFC yet, so I'm aiming for one now."

Most importantly, with his wedding scheduled for next month on the 8th, victory was even more crucial. He shared, "My prospective bride told me the fight comes first. I am always grateful and love her."

However, the result left a sense of regret. Ko Seok-hyun did not back down from the first round, engaging in striking exchanges with Lebosnoyani with confidence. Given that Ko had secured two wins based on wrestling, his opponent struggled to adapt to the unexpected developments.

While there was no decisive blow, several straight punches landed cleanly, turning Lebosnoyani's face red. At one point, he was choked around the neck, but Ko skillfully escaped and overcame the danger. The first round appeared to be clearly in Ko's favor.

Lebosnoyani seemed to adjust his strategy for the second round, becoming more aggressive. Ko attempted a takedown but was subsequently caught in a guillotine choke. However, Ko quickly escaped, regained top position, and gained ground with pounding strikes.

Both fighters rose again, visibly slowing down. In the final moments of the round, Lebosnoyani secured a takedown, dragging Ko until the end of the second round.

Entering the third round, Ko Seok-hyun advanced the fight by throwing jabs. With no clear advantage established, Ko needed something to turn the tide. He attempted attacks from striking positions as in the first round, but his movements noticeably slowed, and he failed to score any significant points.

Although punches were exchanged, Ko was taken down once more toward the end of the round, and the fight concluded under slightly unfavorable conditions for him.

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*This content was translated by AI.