Charles Johnson entered UFC Shanghai this weekend with a “bank account in the red,” but left a massive winner after securing an upset knockout over touted flyweight prospect Lone’er Kavanagh.
You can watch the comeback finish HERE.
This was not expected to be a big showing for Johnson as “InnerG” stood as a sizeable betting underdog for his matchup with Kavanagh. Johnson has had some good success inside of the Octagon — including a 2024 knockout finish over current flyweight title contender Joshua
Van — but Kavanagh was looked at as one of the best all-around prospects in MMA right now. Given all of his hype and undefeated record, Saturday was more for Kavanagh than it was for Johnson.
Unfortunately for Kavanagh, Johnson clearly has a knack for playing spoiler to some of the most talented rising fighters in the UFC’s flyweight division. Much like he did against Van, Johnson relied on a comeback knockout punch to pull out a shocking win over Kavanagh and secure the second biggest victory of his career. In turn, Johnson also walked away with a $50,000 post-fight performance bonus.
Little did fight fans know, Johnson needed this win in more than one way. According to MMA reporter Ariel Helwani, “InnerG” saw his bank account go into the red this week as he expects the birth of his child. The 12-fight UFC veteran had to have his manager, Brian Butler, lend him some money until he got paid for Saturday’s contest. Johnson will not only be able to pay Butler back in full, but he’ll have an extra $50K in his pocket and one of the most surprising knockout wins of 2025.
“Charles Johnson’s bank account went into the red this week, his team tells me,” wrote Helwani. “His manager Brian Butler lent him some money. Johnson has a baby arriving any day now. Got this big KO. Got a bonus, too. First win of 2025. Congrats.”
For more UFC Shanghai results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
