Going for KO, Belingon says Fernandes ‘saved by the bell’ in 4th round

Kevin Belingon pummels Bibiano Fernandes. Photo from ONE CHAMPIONSHIP

SINGAPORE — Kevin Belingon, the newly-minted undisputed ONE bantamweight champion, felt he would’ve knocked out Bibiano Fernandes in the fourth round had the time was on his side during their title unification fight in the main event of ONE: Heart of the Lion Friday night.

Belingon dropped Fernandes with a counter right straight with only seconds remaining in the fourth round as the clock ran out for Team Lakay star to finish off the longtime Brazilian champion.

READ: Kevin Belingon ends Fernandes’ reign, becomes undisputed ONE bantamweight king

“When I knocked him down there were just a few seconds left so it was like he was saved by the bell,” he said.

The 31-year-old Belingon said he was still looking for an opening to score a stoppage but the Baguio City native commended Fernandes for his ability to withstand his punches.

“I was waiting for the opportunity to knock him out but he was really tough. I felt my punches were strong and he was taking it well.”

Nonetheless, Belingon put on a spectacular show to earn a split decision win that ended Fernandes’ five-year reign as the bantamweight champion.

Belingon also improved to 7-0 since losing to Fernandes in their first fight two years ago.