Demetrious Johnson defends UFC featherweight title

Defending champ Demetrious Johnson, top, celebrates with his crew after knocking out Joseph Benavidez in his UFC title defense. AP

SACRAMENTO, California—Demetrious Johnson stopped Joseph Benavidez with a big right hand in the first round Saturday (California time) to defend his Ultimate Fighting Championship flyweight title for the third time.

Johnson (19-2-1) remained the only champion in the history of the UFC’s lightest men’s division. He caught Benavidez (19-4) directly in the face with an unblocked punch, knocking the challenger senseless just 2:08 into the fight.

Johnson beat Benavidez by split decision in Toronto 15 months ago, claiming the UFC’s first flyweight title in a tight matchup. He defended his title twice this year against John Dodson and John Moraga.

Benavidez earned his way back to a title shot with three straight victories this year, the last two by impressive stoppage.