"I proved my name" - John Lineker glad to deliver with his 'Hands of Stone' in flawless Muay Thai debut

John Lineker has always been defined by one trait during his entire MMA career that has seen him compete all over the world. The Brazilian marauder has a relentless style and a granite chin, which only makes him more dangerous once the fists start flying.

If Lineker connects with anybody in and around his weight class, he has the potential to take them out with just one of his sledgehammer-like punches. The nickname 'Hands of Stone' isn't just for show and we saw that at ONE 168, when he made his Muay Thai debut.

Asa Ten Pow is used to competing against dangerous strikers, but no one is quite like the former ONE bantamweight MMA world champion. Lineker, as always, walked his opponent down for the duration of the fight until one of his signature bombs landed.

From this moment on, he was like a shark that smelled blood because the onslaught of strikes didn't stop coming.

Somehow, Ten Pow was able to stay on his feet through multiple barrages until finally, in the second round, he crumbled under the weight.

Lineker spoke about living up to his nickname and wanting to continue showcasing his striking skills during his post-fight interview:

"I want to say thank you to ONE, honestly, thanks to everybody here, I proved my name. 'Hands of Stone' and Chatri, put me to fight in [boxing]. I want to box."

John Lineker was in fine form at ONE 168

The fans inside the Ball Arena in Denver were always going to be in for a treat with John Lineker set to throw down in Muay Thai action.

What they got was a classic performance from the former champ who proved to be too much for his opponent, despite the gap in Muay Thai experience between them.

The Brazilian continues to have one of the most fitting nicknames in combat sports.

The full replay of ONE 168 is available on demand for Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.