Artem "The Russian Hammer" Lobov has finally emerged from the shadow cast by his longtime training partner and friend, Conor McGregor.
Many had suggested the adopted Dubliner was only in the UFC on the coattails of his illustrious sparring partner but those thoughts can be put to bed now.
In going the distance with Swanson, Lobov proved that while he won't be challenging for a world title anytime soon - he's justified in facing any one ranked in the bottom half of the top 15 featherweights.
That was a great fight. Proud of my brother Artem!
What a ride it's been for the Russian… https://t.co/65eNk4BHt7— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) April 23, 2017
His bout at the weekend excited a highly judgemental crowd - who had previously (and unfairly) booed at the conclusion of John Dodson's win over Eddie Wineland.
Despite winning the first round, Lobov blocked punches with his head for the majority of the fight and no doubt endeared himself to casual and hardcore fans alike.
.@CubSwanson landed 209 significant strikes at #UFCNashville. That's the most ever in a UFC/WEC featherweight fight. pic.twitter.com/uFW1J0W8M7
— Mike Bohn (@MikeBohnMMA) April 23, 2017
The pair each pocketed an extra $50,000 for their "Fight of the Night" efforts and while Swanson called for a title shot after the bout, Lobov can now look forward to making a name for himself in the UFC featherweight division.
Despite the animosity leading up to the bout between the pair, there 's nothing better than five rounds in a cage to iron out any differences.
Thank you all for your support, I love you all!!! Congrats @CubSwanson it was an honour to share the octagon with you!
— Artem Lobov (@RusHammerMMA) April 23, 2017
Lobov should target a match-up with Dooho Choi, who coincidentally shared a "Fight of the Night" barn-buster with Swanson last December.
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