"He defended everything" - Stephen Loman says John Lineker doesn't get enough credit for his defensive abilities

Second-ranked bantamweight MMA contender Stephen Loman learned the hard way that John Lineker's defense might just be as good as his feared offense.

'The Sniper' was on the cusp of a world title shot at ONE Fight Night 14 last year when he took on the former bantamweight MMA world champion. Unfortunately for the Filipino fighter, Lineker stifled his entire offensive repertoire for three full rounds, causing him to fall short on the judges' scorecards.

In a Sportskeeda MMA exclusive, Loman admitted he was taken aback by how defensively sound the Brazilian veteran was:

"If my counter-attack had been wrestling, all I did was just shoot for the takedown without even setting it up with my strikes. I think I really lacked the timing, and the set-ups, and I just vanished. My offense just vanished. He defended everything."

Rewatch Loman vs. Lineker, here:

Lineker made a name for himself in the MMA realm for the weapons of mass destruction tucked away in his fists. 'Hands of Stone', though, is also a cerebral tactician, who's battle-hardened by all the wars he's been on over the years.

The Brazilian's underrated defensive skills will come in handy this coming September 6, when he transitions to Muay Thai at ONE 168: Denver at Ball Arena.

John Lineker will look to add another highlight reel KO to his resume against Asa Ten Pow.

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Stephen Loman says John Lineker will thrive in Muay Thai

John Lineker is an expert in cracking skulls, so Stephen Loman believes he'll fit right in when he explores a new venture.

Asked if his old foe will struggle in 'The Art of Eight Limbs', Loman had this to say in the same Sportskeeda MMA interview:

"Not really, because he has all the tools to do it. He's a natural striker. Since he's coming over to Muay Thai, I feel that he's training his kicks heavily."

Tickets for ONE 168: Denver are available via Ticketmaster