Richard Muzaan defeats Israel Mano via TKO in the co-main event at the AKO 9 tournament. It was a quick exchange of back-to-back action that led to the finish in the first round.
In the co-main event of AKO 9, Muzaan faced Mano in a lightweight bout. It was a thrilling one between the two fighters and one of the exciting fights on the card.
The fight started at a furious pace. The fighters wasted no time getting into business. Just before the opening bell, the referee mentioned they were permitted to touch gloves, but neither of the fighters was in for that. Considering Muzaan’s loss to Saac Muluh via first-round KO in AKO 7 , it was obvious he is ready to give it all it takes to win the bout.
From the opening bell, it was all action. They came out exchanging sharp punches at lightning speed, launching into the fight with explosive energy that had the crowd surprised. Mano scored an early takedown on Muzaan almost immediately after the fight started. But Muzaan didn’t stay down — he scrambled back to his feet and returned fire with strikes that dropped Mano.
Less than two minutes in, Muzaan secured his own takedown. Mano struggled to get back up, but Muzaan kept the pressure on, taking him down again. At this point, Mano showed no signs of fighting back. It was clear he had checked out — offering no defense as Muzaan rained down punches. Mano was helpless. Muzaan got the TKO finish at 2:40 into the first round.
At the post-fight interview, Muzaan apologized to his fans for his previous loss and spoke about how tough it is to take a defeat. But he reminded everyone that no one stays undefeated forever.
He declared, “I’m back — stronger and better.”
“The Shield is back.”
“The Shield is here. No shield can protect you from The Shield.” — Muzaan
Other Results from AKO 9
Main Event
Jean Do Santos def. Emmanuel Nworie via Round one Submission
Co-Main Event
Richard Muzaan def. Israel Mano via TKO (Round 1, 2:40)
Abdoul Razac Sankara def. Daniel Iwuoha via TKO (Round 3, 4:55)
Fabian Texas def. Muhmud Ibrahim via TKO (Round 2, 4:24)
Doose Terlumun def. Kevine Kengni via Unanimous Decision
Andre Mukisi def. Fred Kudzele via Unanimous Decision
Clélio Diogo def. George Itumo via Unanimous Decision
Chukwuemerie Okoli def. Ouhsummer Ali Abd via KO (Round 1, 1:29)
Styve Ngono Essono def. Abdulrahm Damilare via Split Decision
