Jakarta, ThedailyID — Bilal Hasan made an impressive UFC debut after scoring a second-round knockout over Nilson Rojas. His performance also caught the attention of former UFC champion Henry Cejudo.
Bilal entered the UFC just three weeks after winning on Dana White’s Contender Series. Facing Rojas, an undefeated fighter with nine wins, Bilal fought aggressively and repeatedly pressured his opponent.
Although Bilal briefly found himself on the ground, he recovered and finished the fight with a KO in the second round. The victory extended his professional record to 10 wins without a loss.
Cejudo, a former UFC flyweight and Olympic gold medalist, praised Bilal’s striking after watching the fight. He specifically highlighted the Indonesian fighter’s right hand and ability to set up his attacks.
“Let’s talk about that deadly straight right cross from Bilal Hasan. And look at how he sets up his attacks,” Cejudo said, Monday (31/08).
Cejudo also pointed to Bilal’s jab and the moment his opponent’s left hand dropped, creating an opening for the decisive right hand.
“Bilal shows the jab, and the moment that left hand drops, boom. The straight right goes right down the middle.”
Beyond his technical ability, Cejudo said Bilal also possesses qualities that could help him stand out in the UFC.
“This kid has some charisma too. He has a showmanship, and he proved it inside the Octagon.”
Bilal has already called for a fight against Andre Lima, who also secured a victory at UFC Shanghai. Cejudo supported the idea, saying Bilal should be given the opponent he wants.
With an undefeated 10-0 record and a statement-making UFC debut, Bilal Hasan now has the attention of one of the sport’s former champions.
