'Wouldn’t stop here,' Derrick Lewis wants to dabble in WWE side hustle, but not at cost of building more knockdown victories

During the UFC on ESPN 56 post-fight conference, even Dana White nudged not having a problem with Lewis’ future transition to WWE. Global athletes like Ronda Rousey and Brock Lesnar have dabbled in both. Genetic beasts and prime athletes by nature, both were prone to playing successful heels in their run. Derrick Lewis has already adapted to better theatrics with quippy one-liners.

He, however, has a legacy to hold on to in MMA. Lewis’ 19 victories in heavyweight are the second-most in divisional history. His 15 stoppage victories in the heavyweight frame are the most in the division. ‘The Black Beast’ now has the most knockouts (and those stemming from punches) under his belt. He’s keen to build on it more, banking on his success.

UFC on ESPN 56 in Facts, Figures, and Fascinations

Derrick Lewis came out strong this weekend, defeating Rodrigo Nascimento in vintage fashion. Lewis pulled out all the stops to thrill fans after his win over Rodrigo Nascimento at the UFC on ESPN 56 main event. Nascimento now has a three-win streak stomped by ‘The Black Beast.’

However, Lewis wasn’t the only attraction of the event. For a smaller haul at a non-numbered card, UFC on ESPN 56 did wonders. Consequently, it has gotten Dana White opting for more roadshows amongst local crowds than events at the secluded UFC Apex.

UFC on ESPN 56 subsequently had an announced attendance of 15,960 and a live gate buyout of $2,470,197. Accordingly, even veteran announcer Bruce Buffer took to celebrating the footfall. Moreover, The UFC Promotional Guidelines Compliance payout for the event totaled $186,000. Other than Lewis, Carlos Ulberg, Diego Ferreira, Trey Waters, and Billy Ray Goff were also big winners. All earning $50,000 in fight-night bonuses. Ulberg’s 6-fight streak at 205 is the most in the division yet.

Joaquin Buckley (20-6 MMA, 9-4 UFC) improved to 4-0 on the card since dropping to 170. His callout to Conor McGregor came out of the blue; the news of PPV king McGregor’s return drawing in excess of $20 million gate did not. The event also saw some heartfelt messages on Mother’s Day from Buckley and Veronica Hardy.