Philipe Lins thanks Francis Ngannou for his $100,000 gift, reflects on ‘life-changing experience’

Philipe Lins has spoken out for the first time since losing at MVP MMA 1.

The 40-year-old Brazilian heavyweight was brutally knocked out by Francis Ngannou on Saturday night.

Post-fight, Philipe Lins was gifted the $100,000 Performance of the Night bonus that was originally awarded to Francis Ngannou.

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Philipe Lins breaks his silence

Philipe Lins was quick to thank Francis Ngannou for his incredible display of post-fight kindness.

“Thank you, Francis,” he commented on an Instagram post about Ngannou’s $100,000 gesture.

“Was a honor fight you! Respect, bro.”

Later, Lins reflects on his overall experience and looks ahead to more fights with Jake Paul‘s MMA outlet.

What I’ve experienced in the last two months has been a life-changing experience,” he wrote.

“What an honor to have been a part of it!

“The result wasn’t what my team and I expected, but head’s held high and moving forward.”

Francis Ngannou’s next fight

Robelis Despaigne called out Francis Ngannou after knocking out Junior dos Santos at MVP MMA 1.

Ngannou is down to fight the 6ft 7in former UFC heavyweight next, but in an ideal world, he’ll face Jon Jones next.

“Okay, then let’s talk about it,” Ngannou said about Despaigne’s callout during his post-fight press conference. I’m down to fight. And if you think he can handle it, OK, why not? He did make a statement. He had a great finish.

“So, I mean, after a finish like that, it’s hard to argue, and take something (away from) somebody.”

“What do I want? Whatever is out there,” he added. “I mean, I really have nothing special. If not, maybe that Jon Jones fight, some big fight, but I really have nothing special. I just wanna keep doing it as long as we go. If I have something, I do it. I think I have done what could have been done.”