Recent from talks
Nothing was collected or created yet.
John Lineker
View on WikipediaJohn Lineker (born June 12, 1990)[1] is a Brazilian Muay Thai kickboxer and mixed martial artist currently signed to ONE Championship, where he is the former ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion. Lineker formerly competed in the bantamweight and flyweight divisions of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. A professional competitor since 2008, he is the former Jungle Fight bantamweight champion. Lineker is known for his aggressive fighting style, punching power, and durability.[6]
Key Information
Mixed martial arts career
[edit]Early career
[edit]Lineker competed in various promotions in his native Brazil, including Samurai FC, Shooto Americas, and Jungle Fight. He is the former Jungle Fight Bantamweight Champion and Nitrix Fights 2011 Bantamweight Grand Prix Champion.
Lineker made his professional MMA debut in September 2008. Originally he fought in the lightweight and featherweight divisions, outside of his natural weight class. He competed 11 times in the first 15 months of his career, resulting in a lackluster record of six wins and five losses.
Beginning in 2010, Lineker moved down in weight classes to the bantamweight and flyweight divisions. After that move, he was undefeated in the 13 bouts prior to his UFC debut.
Ultimate Fighting Championship
[edit]In December 2011, it was announced that Lineker had signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship to compete in their new flyweight division.[7]
Lineker made his UFC debut against Louis Gaudinot at UFC on Fox: Diaz vs. Miller on May 5, 2012.[8] The bout was contested at a catchweight of 127 lb, as Lineker missed weight. Gaudinot defeated Lineker via technical submission (guillotine choke) in the 2nd round after an action-packed, back-and-forth first two rounds. Both participants earned $65,000 Fight of the Night honors for their performances.[9][10]
Lineker was expected to face Yasuhiro Urushitani on September 1, 2012, at UFC 151.[11] However, after UFC 151 was cancelled, Lineker/Urushitani was rescheduled and took place on November 10, 2012, at UFC on Fuel TV 6.[12] In a competitive three rounds, Lineker's power was the difference in the fight as he edged Urushitani via unanimous decision.[13]
For his third UFC fight, Lineker faced Azamat Gashimov on May 18, 2013, at UFC on FX 8.[14] He won the fight via TKO in the second round.[15]
Lineker was expected to face Phil Harris on August 3, 2013, at UFC 163.[16] However, Harris was forced out of the bout and Lineker instead faced promotional newcomer José Maria.[17] Lineker missed the 126 pound weight limit for a non-title flyweight fight, weighing in at 129 pounds. As a result, he surrendered 20 percent of his purse to his opponent and the bout was changed to a 129-pound catchweight affair.[18] After a back-and-forth first round, Lineker won the fight via TKO in the second round.[19]
Following that victory, Lineker was once again scheduled to face off against Phil Harris on October 26, 2013, at UFC Fight Night 30, and he won the fight by TKO.[20] Lineker missed weight for the third time in his UFC career, causing his camp to re-assess his weight class.[21]
Lineker faced Ali Bagautinov on February 1, 2014, at UFC 169. Lineker again missed weight on his first attempt. He was allowed one hour to make the weight and succeeded after 45 minutes.[22] He lost the fight via unanimous decision.[23]
Lineker faced Alp Ozkilic on July 16, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 45.[24] He won the fight via KO due to punches in the third round. The win also garnered Lineker his second Fight of the Night bonus award.[25]
Lineker was expected to face Ian McCall on November 8, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 56 as the co-main event.[26] However, just hours after both fighters had successfully made weight, it was announced that Mccall had been pulled from the event due to a blood infection. The bout was scrapped from the event entirely.[27][28]
The bout with McCall eventually took place on January 31, 2015, at UFC 183.[29] At the weigh in, Lineker again failed to make the flyweight weight limit. He was over by four pounds and was subsequently fined 30% of this purse.[30] Because of the repeated failed weigh ins, he was forced to move up to the bantamweight division (135lb).[31] He won the bout by unanimous decision.[32]
Making his bantamweight return, Lineker faced Francisco Rivera in a bantamweight bout on September 5, 2015 at UFC 191.[33] He won the fight via submission in the first round. The wild slugfest earned both participants, Fight of the Night honors.[34][35]
Lineker was expected to face Cody Garbrandt on February 21, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 83.[36] However, Lineker pulled out of the fight during the week leading up to the event citing illness and was replaced by Augusto Mendes.[37][38]
Lineker faced Rob Font on May 14, 2016, at UFC 198.[39] He won the fight via unanimous decision in round 3.[40]
Lineker next faced Michael McDonald on July 13, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 91.[41] He won the fight via knockout in the first round and was awarded a Performance of the Night bonus.[42][43]
Lineker faced John Dodson on October 1, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 96.[44] The bout took place at a catchweight of 136.5 lbs as Lineker missed weight. He won the back and forth fight via split decision.[45]
Lineker faced former UFC Bantamweight Champion T.J. Dillashaw on December 30, 2016, at UFC 207.[46] He lost via unanimous decision.[47]
Lineker faced Marlon Vera on October 28, 2017, at UFC Fight Night 119.[48] He won the fight via unanimous decision.[49]
Lineker was scheduled to face Jimmie Rivera on December 30, 2017 at UFC 219, replacing the injured Dominick Cruz.[50] On December 24, it was reported that Lineker was forced to pull from the fight due to tooth infection. [51] Subsequently the fight was cancelled.[52]
Lineker faced Brian Kelleher on May 12, 2018, at UFC 224.[53] He won the fight via knockout in the third round.[54]
Lineker was expected to face Dominick Cruz on January 26, 2019, at UFC 233.[55] It was reported on December 11, 2018 that Cruz injured his shoulder and pulled out of the fight.[56] As a result of the cancellation of UFC 233,[57][58] Lineker was rescheduled to face Cory Sandhagen at UFC Fight Night 143.[59] However, it was reported on January 10, 2019, that Lineker was pulled from the bout due to rib injury.[60]
The bout with Sandhagen was rescheduled and eventually took place on April 27, 2019, at UFC Fight Night: Jacaré vs. Hermansson.[61] Lineker lost the fight via split decision.[62]
Lineker was scheduled to face Rob Font on June 22, 2019, at UFC Fight Night 154, replacing injured Cody Stamann.[63] In turn, Lineker was pulled from the bout for undisclosed reasons.[64]
On July 2, 2019, it was announced that Lineker had been released by UFC,[65] and was signed by ONE Championship on July 8, 2019.[66]
ONE Championship
[edit]Lineker made his promotional debut against Muin Gafurov at ONE Championship: Dawn Of Valor on October 26, 2019.[67] He won the fight by unanimous decision.[68]
Lineker made his sophomore appearance in the organization against Kevin Belingon at ONE Championship: Inside the Matrix 3 on November 13, 2020.[69] He defeated Belingon by second-round technical knockout.[70]
Lineker was scheduled to face Stephen Loman at ONE on TNT 4 on April 28, 2021.[71] Loman would later withdraw from the card, as he tested positive for COVID-19, and was replaced by Troy Worthen.[72] He won the bout via KO in the first round.[73]
ONE Bantamweight World Champion
[edit]Lineker was scheduled to face reigning champion Bibiano Fernandes for the ONE Bantamweight Championship at ONE: X on December 3, 2021.[74] However due to the pandemic, the event was postponed and the bout was moved to ONE: Bad Blood on February 11, 2022.[75] Lineker tested positive for COVID days before the event and the bout was pulled.[76] The bout was rescheduled for ONE: Lights Out on March 11, 2022.[77] Lineker won the fight by second-round knockout to become the new ONE Bantamweight World Champion.[78][79] The win also earned him a Performance of the Night bonus.[80]
Lineker was scheduled to make his first bantamweight title defense against Fabrício Andrade at ONE on Prime Video 3 on October 21, 2022.[81] At weigh-ins, John Lineker missed weight, coming in at 145.75 lbs, .75 pounds over the limit. Lineker was stripped of the ONE Bantamweight World Championship and the bout proceeded at a catchweight with only Andrade being able to win the title. Andrade also got 20% of his purse.[82] During the beginning of the third round, Andrade accidentally connected with a strike to the groin of Lineker, who could not continue. The fight was declared a no contest.[83]
A rematch between Lineker and Andrade for the vacant ONE Bantamweight World Championship took place on February 25, 2023, at ONE Fight Night 7.[84] He lost the bout by technical knockout after his corner stopped the fight after the fourth round.[85]
Post-championship
[edit]Lineker faced Kim Jae-woong on August 5, 2023, at ONE Fight Night 13.[86] At the weigh-ins, Lineker weighed in at 151 pounds, 6 pounds over the bantamweight limit. The bouts proceeded at catchweight with him being fined 25% his individual purse, which went to Kim.[87] He won the bout via technical knockout in the third round.[88]
Lineker faced Stephen Loman on September 30, 2023, at ONE Fight Night 14.[89] He won the fight via unanimous decision.[90]
Replacing Sage Northcutt on short notice, Lineker faced Shinya Aoki in a openweight bout on January 28, 2024, at ONE 165.[91] He lost the fight by rear-naked submission in the first round.[92]
Muay Thai and kickboxing career
[edit]ONE Championship
[edit]Lineker was scheduled to make his Muay Thai debut against Liam Harrison on January 13, 2024, at ONE Fight Night 18.[93] However, Harrison suffered a knee injury and the bout was scrapped.[94]
Lineker faced Asa Ten Pow on September 6, 2024, at ONE 168.[95] He won the fight via knockout in the second round.[96]
Lineker faced Alexey Balyko on October 5, 2024, at ONE Fight Night 25.[97] He won the fight via knockout in the first round and this win earned the Performance of the Night bonuses.[98]
Lineker faced Kulabdam Sor.Jor.Piek-U-Thai on January 11, 2025, at ONE Fight Night 27.[99] At the weigh-ins, both fighters failed multiple hydration tests and the bout proceeded at a catchweight of 150.75 pounds.[100][101] He lost the fight via unanimous decision.[102]
Lineker made his kickboxing debut against Hiroki Akimoto on March 23, 2025, at ONE 172.[103] He lost the fight via split decision.[104]
Personal life
[edit]Championships and accomplishments
[edit]- ONE Championship
- ONE Bantamweight World Championship (One time)
- Performance of the Night (Three times) vs. Bibiano Fernandes, Asa Ten Pow and Alexey Balyko
- Ultimate Fighting Championship
- Fight of the Night (Three times) vs. Louis Gaudinot, Alp Ozkilic and Francisco Rivera[10][25][35]
- Performance of the Night (One time) vs. Michael McDonald[43]
- Tied (Deiveson Figueiredo, Dustin Ortiz & Manel Kape) for third most knockouts in UFC Flyweight division history (4)[107]
- Holds the record for most weight misses in UFC history (5)[108]
- UFC.com Awards
- Jungle Fight
- Jungle Fight Bantamweight Championship (one time)
- Nitrix Champion Fight
- Nitrix Fights Bantamweight Grand Prix
Mixed martial arts record
[edit]| 49 matches | 37 wins | 11 losses |
| By knockout | 18 | 1 |
| By submission | 4 | 4 |
| By decision | 14 | 6 |
| By disqualification | 1 | 0 |
| No contests | 1 | |
| Res. | Record | Opponent | Method | Event | Date | Round | Time | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loss | 37–11 (1) | Shinya Aoki | Submission (rear-naked choke) | ONE 165 | January 28, 2024 | 1 | 3:00 | Tokyo, Japan | Openweight bout. |
| Win | 37–10 (1) | Stephen Loman | Decision (unanimous) | ONE Fight Night 14 | September 30, 2023 | 3 | 5:00 | Kallang, Singapore | |
| Win | 36–10 (1) | Kim Jae-woong | KO (punches) | ONE Fight Night 13 | August 5, 2023 | 3 | 4:56 | Bangkok, Thailand | Catchweight (151 lb) bout; Lineker missed weight. |
| Loss | 35–10 (1) | Fabrício Andrade | TKO (corner stoppage) | ONE Fight Night 7 | February 25, 2023 | 4 | 5:00 | Bangkok, Thailand | For the vacant ONE Bantamweight Championship (145 lb). |
| NC | 35–9 (1) | Fabrício Andrade | NC (accidental knee to groin) | ONE on Prime Video 3 | October 22, 2022 | 3 | 2:44 | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Lineker missed weight (145.75 lb) and was stripped of the ONE Bantamweight Championship (145 lb). Only Andrade was eligible to win the title. Accidental knee to the groin rendered Lineker unable to continue. |
| Win | 35–9 | Bibiano Fernandes | KO (punch) | ONE: Lights Out | March 11, 2022 | 2 | 3:40 | Kallang, Singapore | Won the ONE Bantamweight Championship (145 lb). Performance of the Night. |
| Win | 34–9 | Troy Worthen | KO (punch) | ONE on TNT 3 | April 21, 2021 | 1 | 4:35 | Kallang, Singapore | |
| Win | 33–9 | Kevin Belingon | TKO (punches) | ONE: Inside the Matrix 3 | November 13, 2020 | 2 | 1:16 | Kallang, Singapore | |
| Win | 32–9 | Muin Gafurov | Decision (unanimous) | ONE: Dawn of Valor | October 26, 2019 | 3 | 5:00 | Jakarta, Indonesia | Featherweight debut. |
| Loss | 31–9 | Cory Sandhagen | Decision (split) | UFC Fight Night: Jacaré vs. Hermansson | April 27, 2019 | 3 | 5:00 | Sunrise, Florida, United States | |
| Win | 31–8 | Brian Kelleher | KO (punch) | UFC 224 | May 12, 2018 | 3 | 3:43 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | |
| Win | 30–8 | Marlon Vera | Decision (unanimous) | UFC Fight Night: Brunson vs. Machida | October 28, 2017 | 3 | 5:00 | São Paulo, Brazil | |
| Loss | 29–8 | T.J. Dillashaw | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 207 | December 30, 2016 | 3 | 5:00 | Las Vegas, Nevada, United States | |
| Win | 29–7 | John Dodson | Decision (split) | UFC Fight Night: Lineker vs. Dodson | October 1, 2016 | 5 | 5:00 | Portland, Oregon, United States | Catchweight (136.5 lb) bout; Lineker missed weight. |
| Win | 28–7 | Michael McDonald | KO (punches) | UFC Fight Night: McDonald vs. Lineker | July 13, 2016 | 1 | 2:43 | Sioux Falls, South Dakota, United States | Performance of the Night. |
| Win | 27–7 | Rob Font | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 198 | May 14, 2016 | 3 | 5:00 | Curitiba, Brazil | |
| Win | 26–7 | Francisco Rivera | Submission (guillotine choke) | UFC 191 | September 5, 2015 | 1 | 2:08 | Las Vegas, Nevada, United States | Return to Bantamweight. Fight of the Night. |
| Win | 25–7 | Ian McCall | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 183 | January 31, 2015 | 3 | 5:00 | Las Vegas, Nevada, United States | Catchweight (130 lb) bout; Lineker missed weight. |
| Win | 24–7 | Alp Ozkilic | TKO (punches) | UFC Fight Night: Cowboy vs. Miller | July 16, 2014 | 3 | 4:51 | Atlantic City, New Jersey, United States | Fight of the Night. |
| Loss | 23–7 | Ali Bagautinov | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 169 | February 1, 2014 | 3 | 5:00 | Newark, New Jersey, United States | UFC Flyweight title eliminator. |
| Win | 23–6 | Phil Harris | TKO (punches) | UFC Fight Night: Machida vs. Muñoz | October 26, 2013 | 1 | 2:51 | Manchester, England | Catchweight (128 lb) bout; Lineker missed weight. |
| Win | 22–6 | José Maria Tomé | TKO (punches) | UFC 163 | August 3, 2013 | 2 | 1:03 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | Catchweight (129 lb) bout; Lineker missed weight. |
| Win | 21–6 | Azamat Gashimov | TKO (punches) | UFC on FX: Belfort vs. Rockhold | May 18, 2013 | 2 | 1:07 | Jaraguá do Sul, Brazil | Gashimov was deducted one point in round 1 due to grabbing the cage. |
| Win | 20–6 | Yasuhiro Urushitani | Decision (unanimous) | UFC on Fuel TV: Franklin vs. Le | November 10, 2012 | 3 | 5:00 | Macau, SAR, China | |
| Loss | 19–6 | Louis Gaudinot | Technical Submission (guillotine choke) | UFC on Fox: Diaz vs. Miller | May 5, 2012 | 2 | 4:54 | East Rutherford, New Jersey, United States | Flyweight debut; Lineker missed weight (127 lb). Fight of the Night. |
| Win | 19–5 | Iliarde Santos | Decision (split) | Jungle Fight 32 | September 10, 2011 | 3 | 5:00 | São Paulo, Brazil | Won the Jungle Fight Bantamweight Championship. |
| Win | 18–5 | Francisco Figueiredo | TKO (punches) | Jungle Fight 30 | July 30, 2011 | 3 | 0:36 | Belém, Brazil | |
| Win | 17–5 | Luiz Salgadinho | KO (punch) | Jungle Fight 28 | May 21, 2011 | 1 | 1:18 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | |
| Win | 16–5 | Renato Velame | Submission (rear-naked choke) | Jungle Fight 27 | April 21, 2011 | 1 | 2:58 | Brasília, Brazil | |
| Win | 15–5 | Saulo Martins | TKO (punches) | Shooto Brazil 22 | April 1, 2011 | 1 | 3:30 | Brasília, Brazil | |
| Win | 14–5 | Diego D'Avila | Decision (unanimous) | Nitrix Champion Fight 6 | February 19, 2011 | 3 | 5:00 | Brusque, Brazil | Won the Nitrix Fights Bantamweight Grand Prix. |
| Win | 13–5 | Alessandro Cordeiro | TKO (punches) | 1 | 3:44 | Nitrix Fights Bantamweight Grand Prix Semifinal. | |||
| Win | 12–5 | Felipe Alves | Submission (rear-naked choke) | Gladiators FC 2 | October 16, 2010 | 2 | 2:05 | Curitiba, Brazil | |
| Win | 11–5 | Alvino José Torres | Submission (rear-naked choke) | Shooto Brazil 18 | September 17, 2010 | 2 | N/A | Brasília, Brazil | |
| Win | 10–5 | Jetron Azevedo | Decision (unanimous) | Gladiators FC 1 | May 8, 2010 | 3 | 5:00 | Curitiba, Brazil | |
| Win | 9–5 | Israel Silva | Decision (unanimous) | K.O. Fight 3 | April 10, 2010 | 3 | 5:00 | Apucarana, Brazil | |
| Win | 8–5 | Larry Vargas | DQ (punches after the bell) | Full Heroes Battle 2 | February 5, 2010 | 2 | 5:00 | Paranaguá, Brazil | |
| Win | 7–5 | Cica Cica | Decision (unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | ||||
| Loss | 6–5 | Rafael Silva | Decision (unanimous) | Warrior's Challenge 4 | December 30, 2009 | 3 | 5:00 | Porto Belo, Brazil | |
| Win | 6–4 | Wagner Campos | TKO (punches) | Brazilian Fight League 5 | December 19, 2009 | 2 | N/A | Curitiba, Brazil | |
| Loss | 5–4 | Andre Luis | Decision (unanimous) | Samurai Fight Combat 1 | September 12, 2009 | 3 | 5:00 | Curitiba, Brazil | |
| Loss | 5–3 | Erick Carlos Silva | Decision (unanimous) | Blackout FC 3 | September 5, 2009 | 3 | 5:00 | Balneário Camboriú, Brazil | |
| Loss | 5–2 | Felipe Arantes | Submission (armbar) | Paranagua Fight 5 | August 7, 2009 | 1 | 1:12 | Paranaguá, Brazil | |
| Win | 5–1 | Márcio Sapo | Decision (unanimous) | Nitrix Show Fight 2 | May 16, 2009 | 3 | 5:00 | Joinville, Brazil | |
| Win | 4–1 | Alexandre Chatuba | TKO (punches) | VIP Stage 3 | May 2, 2009 | 2 | N/A | Joinville, Brazil | |
| Loss | 3–1 | Nelson Velasques | Submission (rear-naked choke) | Golden Fighters 1 | April 18, 2009 | 1 | 4:02 | Novo Hamburgo, Brazil | |
| Win | 3–0 | Claudinei Rodriguez | Decision (unanimous) | Floripa Fight 5 | March 7, 2009 | 3 | 5:00 | Florianópolis, Brazil | |
| Win | 2–0 | Heriton Alves | KO (punches) | Paranagua Fight 3 | November 11, 2008 | 1 | N/A | Paranaguá, Brazil | |
| Win | 1–0 | Mauricio Alves | TKO (punches) | Paranagua Fight 2 | September 5, 2008 | 2 | 1:25 | Paranaguá, Brazil | Bantamweight debut. |
Muay Thai and Kickboxing record
[edit]| 2 Wins, 2 Losses, 0 Draw | ||||||||
| Date | Result | Opponent | Event | Location | Method | Round | Time | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-03-23 | Loss | ONE 172 | Saitama, Japan | Decision (Split) | 3 | 3:00 | ||
| 2025-01-11 | Loss | ONE Fight Night 27 | Bangkok, Thailand | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 3:00 | ||
| 2024-10-05 | Win | ONE Fight Night 25 | Bangkok, Thailand | KO (punch) | 1 | 2:14 | ||
| 2024-09-06 | Win | ONE 168 | Denver, Colorado, United States | KO (punch) | 2 | 2:50 | ||
| Legend: Win Loss Draw/No contest Notes | ||||||||
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b Mixed martial arts show results Date: September 5, 2015
- ^ "Fight Card - UFC Fight Night Cerrone vs. Miller". UFC.com. Archived from the original on July 3, 2018. Retrieved July 17, 2014.
- ^ John Morgan and Christian Stein (July 15, 2014). "UFC Fight Night 45's John Lineker: I've identified source of fight-week weight issues". MMAjunkie.com.
- ^ a b "John 'Hand of Stone' Lineker". facebook.com. Retrieved January 27, 2015.
- ^ John Lineker (December 21, 2016). "Bom dia, ontem teve graduação na academia #OCSJJ agora faixa marrom de #jiujitsu ter recebido das mãos de um cara como o mestre Ocimar sem palavras, só gratidão, agradeço a Deus pela tua vida e de toda sua família vc é demais! Obrigado Senhor por mais uma conquista em minha vida". instagram.com (in Portuguese). Archived from the original on 2021-12-24.
- ^ "John Lineker released from UFC contract after 16-fight tenure". 3 July 2019.
- ^ "Jungle Fight Bantamweight Champion John Lineker signed by the UFC, set to compete at flyweight". mmamania.com. May 3, 2012.
- ^ "UFC on FOX 3 adds flyweights Louis Gaudinot vs. newcomer John Lineker". mmajunkie.com. February 3, 2012. Archived from the original on February 5, 2012.
- ^ "Louis Gaudinot Scores the Submission Victory Over John Lineker at UFC on Fox 3 (Play-by-Play Results)". tsk.com. 5 May 2012. Retrieved 8 April 2022.
- ^ a b Staff (2012-05-08). "John Lineker thankful for surprise fight-night bonus, potential second UFC fight". mmajunkie.usatoday.com. Retrieved 2025-03-01.
- ^ Cruz, Guilherme (July 17, 2012). "John Lineker meets Yasuhiro Urushitani at UFC 151". tatame.com.[permanent dead link]
- ^ "Urushitani-Lineker move from UFC 151 to UFC on FUEL TV 6 in Macau". mmajunkie.com. August 24, 2012. Archived from the original on August 27, 2012.
- ^ Erickson, Matt (10 November 2012). "UFC on FUEL TV 6 results: John Lineker outstrikes Yasuhiro Urushitani for first UFC win". mmajunkie.usatoday.com. Retrieved 8 April 2022.
- ^ "John Lineker vs. Azamat Gashimov planned for UFC on FX 8". MMAjunkie.com. February 27, 2013.
- ^ Marrocco, Steven (18 May 2013). "UFC on FX 8 results/photos: John Lineker blasts Azamat Gashimov with body shots". mmajunkie.usatoday.com. Retrieved 8 April 2022.
- ^ "UFC 163 adds flyweights John Lineker-Phil Harris". MMAjunkie.com. June 8, 2013. Retrieved June 8, 2013.
- ^ Staff (2013-07-18). "Jose Maria Tome replaces Phil Harris, meets John Lineker at UFC 163". MMAJunkie.com. Retrieved 2013-07-18.
- ^ Staff (2013-08-02). "UFC 163 weigh-in results". MMAJunkie.com. Retrieved 2013-08-03.
- ^ Doyle, Dave (3 August 2013). "UFC 163 results: John Lineker rallies for win over Jose Maria Tome". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 8 April 2022.
- ^ "UFC Manchester 2013: Harris vs. Lineker". YourMMA.tv. August 9, 2013. Archived from the original on August 9, 2013. Retrieved August 9, 2013.
- ^ "Lineker Misses Weight For 3rd Time". foxsports.com. 25 October 2013. Retrieved 8 April 2022.
- ^ "UFC 169 official weigh-in results: Lineker makes weight on second attempt (Updated)". mmajunkie.com. 2014-01-31.
- ^ Mrosko, Geno (1 February 2014). "UFC 169 results: Ali Bagautinov wins decision over John Lineker". mmamania.com. Retrieved 8 April 2022.
- ^ Staff (2014-05-02). "John Lineker vs. Alptekin Ozkilic added to UFC Fight Night 45 in New Jersey". MMAJunkie.com. Retrieved 2014-05-02.
- ^ a b Dann Stupp (2014-06-08). "UFC Fight Night 45 bonuses: Cerrone, Lineker among $50,000 award winners". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2014-07-17.
- ^ Staff (2014-09-04). "John Lineker meets Ian McCall at UFC Fight Night 56 in Brazil". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2014-09-04.
- ^ Luke Thomas (2014-11-08). "Ian McCall out of his bout with John Lineker at UFC Fight Night 56". mmafighting.com.
- ^ Luke Thomas (2014-11-08). "Ian McCall cites blood infection for withdrawal from John Lineker fight at UFC Fight Night 56".
- ^ Damon Martin (2014-11-25). "Ian McCall vs. John Lineker rescheduled for UFC 183: Silva vs. Diaz". foxsports.com. Retrieved 2014-11-25.
- ^ Staff (2015-01-30). "UFC 183 official weigh-in results: Gastelum, Lineker ridiculously overweight". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2015-01-30.
- ^ Staff (2015-01-31). "Dana Orders Lineker to Change Weight Class". Retrieved 2015-02-01.
- ^ Doyle, Dave (31 January 2015). "UFC 183 results: John Lineker decisions Ian McCall after missing weight again". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 8 April 2022.
- ^ Staff (2015-07-15). "Demetrious Johnson vs. John Dodson II headlines UFC 191 on September 5 in Las Vegas". themmareport.com. Retrieved 2015-07-15.
- ^ Ben Fowlkes (2015-09-05). "UFC 191 results, highlights: John Lineker taps Francisco Rivera in first after crazy slugfest". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2015-09-05.
- ^ a b Tristen Critchfield (2015-09-05). "UFC 191 Bonuses: John Lineker, Francisco Rivera garner $50K for wild slugfest". sherdog.com. Retrieved 2015-09-05.
- ^ Staff (2015-12-14). "Garbrandt vs. Lineker added to UFC Fight Night 82". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2015-12-14.
- ^ Guilherme Cruz (2016-02-15). "John Lineker out of UFC Fight Night 83 due to illness". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 2016-02-15.
- ^ Tristen Critchfield (2016-02-16). "Augusto Mendes to meet Cody Garbrandt on short notice at UFC Fight Night Pittsburgh". sherdog.com. Retrieved 2016-02-16.
- ^ Guilherme Cruz (2016-03-23). "John Lineker vs. Rob Font official for UFC 198". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 2016-03-23.
- ^ Brent Brookhouse (2016-05-14). "UFC 198 results: John Lineker's powerful striking overwhelms Rob Font for decision win". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2016-05-14.
- ^ Tristen Critchfield (2016-05-18). "John Lineker, Michael McDonald booked for UFC Fight Night South Dakota co-main event". sherdog.com. Retrieved 2016-05-18.
- ^ Brent Brookhouse (2016-07-14). "UFC Fight Night 91 results: John Lineker's power shuts down Michael McDonald in first round". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2006-07-14.
- ^ a b Tristen Critchfield (2016-07-14). "UFC Fight Night Sioux Falls bonuses: Ferguson, Vannata Garner $50K apiece for wild battle". sherdog.com. Retrieved 2016-07-14.
- ^ Dan Hiergesell (2016-08-13). "John Dodson vs. John Lineker set in stone for UFC Fight Night 96 main event in Portland". MMAmania.com. Retrieved 2016-08-13.
- ^ Matt Erickson (2016-10-02). "UFC Fight Night 96 results: John Lineker tops John Dodson by split in 'Fight of the Year' contender". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2016-10-02.
- ^ Marc Raimondi (2016-11-02). "Former champ T.J. Dillashaw vs. John Lineker targeted for UFC 207". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 2016-11-02.
- ^ Dave Doyle (2016-12-30). "UFC 207 results: T.J. Dillashaw impresses in win over John Lineker". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 2016-12-30.
- ^ Guilherme Cruz (2017-09-19). "UFC adds John Lineker vs. Marlon Vera to Fight Night card in Sao Paulo". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 2017-09-19.
- ^ "UFC Fight Night 119: John Lineker rolls past Marlon Vera by unanimous decision". MMAmania.com. Retrieved 2017-10-29.
- ^ "John Lineker steps in to face Jimmie Rivera at UFC 219". MMA Fighting. Retrieved 2017-11-22.
- ^ "John Lineker out of UFC 219 fight with Jimmie Rivera". MMA Fighting. Retrieved 2017-12-24.
- ^ "After Marlon Moraes drama, Jimmie Rivera's UFC 219 fiasco ruined Christmas". MMAjunkie. 2017-12-26. Retrieved 2017-12-26.
- ^ Guilherme Cruz (2018-03-12). "John Lineker vs. Brian Kelleher added to UFC 224 in Brazil". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 2018-03-12.
- ^ "UFC 224 results: John Lineker relentless, finishes Brian Kelleher in third". MMAjunkie. 2018-05-13. Retrieved 2018-05-13.
- ^ Staff (2018-12-05). "Dominick Cruz set for return vs. John Lineker at UFC 233 after two-year layoff". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2018-12-05.
- ^ "Dominick Cruz injured, UFC 233 clash with John Lineker in jeopardy". MMAjunkie. 2018-12-11. Retrieved 2018-12-11.
- ^ Staff (2018-12-12). "Multiple UFC 233 fights get new dates, locations after Jan. 26 card scratched". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2018-12-12.
- ^ Marcel Dorff (2018-12-13). "Many battles of canceled UFC 233 card moved to other events" (in Dutch). mmadna.nl. Retrieved 2018-12-13.
- ^ "John Lineker vs. Cory Sandhagen added to UFC on ESPN+ 1 in Brooklyn". MMAjunkie. 2018-12-22. Retrieved 2018-12-23.
- ^ "Report: John Lineker Injured, Out of Bout with Cory Sandhagen at UFC on ESPN+ 1". m.sherdog.com. Retrieved 2019-01-11.
- ^ Steven Marrocco (2019-02-13). "John Lineker vs. Cory Sandhagen rescheduled for UFC on ESPN 3 in Miami". mmajunkie.com. Retrieved 2019-02-13.
- ^ "UFC on ESPN+ 8 results: Cory Sandhagen survives late scare, beats John Lineker by split decision". MMA Junkie. 2019-04-28. Retrieved 2019-04-29.
- ^ Shelton, Cole (2019-06-05). "Cody Stamann Hurt; John Lineker Now Fights Rob Font At UFC Greenville • MMA News". MMA News. Retrieved 2019-06-06.
- ^ "John Lineker out of UFC on ESPN+ 12 fight vs. Rob Font". MMA Junkie. 2019-06-21. Retrieved 2019-06-21.
- ^ "John Lineker released from UFC contract after 16-fight tenure". MMA Junkie. 2019-07-03. Retrieved 2019-07-03.
- ^ Sherdog.com. "Recently Released UFC Vet John Lineker Announces Signing with One Championship". Sherdog. Retrieved 2019-07-09.
- ^ Guilherme Cruz (September 12, 2019). "Zebaztian Kadestam's title defense, John Lineker's debut official for ONE: Dawn of Valor in October". mmafighting.com.
- ^ Holland, Jesse (25 October 2019). "GIF: John Lineker unloads on Muin Gafurov, wins ONE Championship debut". mmamania.com. Retrieved 8 April 2022.
- ^ "Kevin Belingon faces John Lineker at ONE: 'Inside the Matrix' Part III". asianmma.com. November 2, 2020.
- ^ "ONE Championship results, video: John Lineker knocks out former champ Kevin Belingon in Singapore". MMA Fighting. 2020-11-13. Retrieved 2021-02-26.
- ^ "John Lineker vs. Stephen Loman set for ONE on TNT 4 in April". MMA Fighting. 2021-02-25. Retrieved 2021-02-26.
- ^ Patrick, Joseph (7 April 2021). "Worthen Steps In For Loman; Other 'ONE on TNT' Card Changes Confirmed". ibtimes.com. Retrieved 8 April 2021.
- ^ Sherdog.com. "One Championship 'One on TNT 3' Play-by-Play & Results". Sherdog. Retrieved 2021-04-22.
- ^ "Demetrious Johnson returns Dec. 5 for special rules bout vs. muay Thai champ Rodtang Jitmuangnon". MMA Junkie. 2021-09-15. Retrieved 2021-09-15.
- ^ Lee, Alexander K. (2022-01-12). "Bibiano Fernandes vs. John Lineker ONE Championship title fight rescheduled for Feb. 11". MMA Fighting. Retrieved 2022-01-12.
- ^ Cruz, Guilherme (2022-02-09). "John Lineker tests positive for COVID, Bibiano Fernandes title fight off Friday's ONE". MMA Fighting. Retrieved 2022-02-09.
- ^ Cruz, Guilherme (2022-02-14). "Bibiano Fernandes vs. John Lineker re-booked for ONE: Lights Out in March". MMA Fighting. Retrieved 2022-02-14.
- ^ Anderson, Jay (2022-03-11). "ONE: Lights Out Sees John Lineker Stop Bibiano Fernandes to Claim Bantamweight Title". Cageside Press. Retrieved 2022-03-11.
- ^ "ONE Championship 'Lights Out' Results: Le Defends, Lineker Earns Gold". Combat Press. 2022-03-11. Retrieved 2022-03-12.
- ^ "Chatri Sityodtong Hands Out Five Performance Bonuses At ONE: LIGHTS OUT – ONE Championship Results". ONE Championship – The Home Of Martial Arts. 2022-03-11. Retrieved 2022-03-11.
- ^ Martin, Damon (6 September 2022). "Reinier de Ridder vs. Shamil Abdulaev, John Lineker vs. Fabricio Andrade headline ONE on Prime Video 3". mmafighting.com. Retrieved 7 September 2022.
- ^ "John Lineker misses weight for ONE on Prime Video 3". South China Morning Post. 2022-10-20. Retrieved 2022-10-20.
- ^ Staff (2022-10-22). "ONE on Prime Video 3 results: Fabricio Andrade's low blow breaks John Lineker's cup; fight declared no contest". mmajunkie.usatoday.com. Retrieved 2022-10-22.
- ^ Jay Furness (2022-11-15). "John Lineker Vs. Fabricio Andrade II Confirmed For ONE On Prime Video 7". ONE Championship – The Home of Martial Arts. Retrieved 2022-11-15.
- ^ Val Dewar (2023-02-25). "ONE Fight Night 7: Fabricio Andrade Claims Gold After Lineker Fails to Answer Bell for Round 5". Cageside Press. Retrieved 2023-02-25.
- ^ "John Lineker set to return at ONE Fight Night 13, meets Kim Jae Woong on Aug. 4". MMA Junkie. 2023-06-29. Retrieved 2023-06-30.
- ^ Strobel, Kevin (2023-08-04). "ONE Fight Night 13 Weigh-in Results: John Lineker, Elias Mahmoudi, Rungrawee Miss Weight & Have to Forfeit 25% Of Their Purse". MMA Junkie. Retrieved 2023-06-02.
- ^ Val Dewar (2023-08-04). "ONE Fight Night 13: John Lineker Comes Back to KO Jae Woong Kim in Final Seconds". Cageside Press. Retrieved 2023-08-04.
- ^ Martin, Damon (2023-08-17). "John Lineker returns against Stephen Loman at ONE Fight Night 14 on Sept. 29 in Singapore". MMA Fighting. Retrieved 2023-08-17.
- ^ "ONE Championship Fight Night 14 results: Stamp Fairtex stops Ham Seo-hee with body-shot KO to win atomweight title". South China Morning Post. 2023-09-30. Retrieved 2023-09-30.
- ^ Leonard, Harvey (2024-01-28). "ONE 165 Live Results & Highlights: Featuring Superlek vs. Takeru, Shinya Aoki vs. John Lineker". MMA News | UFC News, Results and Interviews. Retrieved 2024-01-28.
- ^ "Shinya Aoki Submits John Lineker On Less Than One Day's Notice At ONE 165". Jitsmagazine. 28 January 2024. Retrieved 28 January 2024.
- ^ "John Lineker to make muay Thai debut at ONE Fight Night 18". MMA Junkie. 2023-11-17. Retrieved 2023-11-17.
- ^ "Iv already pulled out it's been announced everywhere I just had stem cell treatment on my knee". Twitter. December 12, 2023.
- ^ "John Lineker makes muay Thai debut vs. Asa Ten Pow at ONE 168 in Denver". MMA Junkie. 2024-07-31. Retrieved 2024-09-02.
- ^ "ONE 168 Results: Superlek Finishes Haggerty in Under One Minute with Elbow". Combat Press. 2024-09-06. Retrieved 2024-10-06.
- ^ "John Lineker to battle Alexey Balyko in Muay Thai bout at ONE Fight Night 25". | BJPenn.com. 2024-09-24. Retrieved 2024-10-06.
- ^ Joseph, Mike (2024-10-05). "ONE Fight Night 25 Results: Regian Eersel Gets Revenge Over Alexis Nicolas; John Lineker Stops Alexey Balyko". myKhel.com. Retrieved 2024-10-06.
- ^ "John Lineker to face Kulabdam in Muay Thai firefight at ONE Fight Night 27". | BJPenn.com. 2024-11-27. Retrieved 2024-12-09.
- ^ "ONE Championship: Akbar Abdullaev ineligible to win title as six fighters fail to pass hydration". Bangkok Post. 2025-01-10. Retrieved 2025-01-10.
- ^ "ONE Fight Night 27: Tang vs Abdullaev Weigh-In & Hydration Test results". MMA UK. 2025-01-10. Retrieved 2025-01-11.
- ^ Joseph, Mike (2025-01-11). "ONE Fight Night 27 Results: Zamboanga Claims Interim Title, Abdullaev Stuns Tang in Headliner". myKhel.com. Retrieved 2025-01-11.
- ^ "ONE Championship adds four title fights to ONE 172 in Japan, including Tawanchai vs Noiri". Bangkok Post. 2025-01-31. Retrieved 2025-01-31.
- ^ "ONE 172 Results: Rodtang Stops Takeru In Round One". Combat Press. 2025-03-23. Retrieved 2025-03-30.
- ^ Duane Finley (December 30, 2017). "John Lineker's Wife Details Infection That Caused UFC 219 Removal". flocombat.com.
- ^ Steven Marrocco (May 29, 2019). "John Lineker explains tweet requesting UFC fight or release: 'This is my life'". mmajunkie.com.
- ^ "UFC Records - Flyweight". statleaders.ufc.com. Retrieved 2025-03-01.
- ^ Mike Bohn (2017-01-08). "UFC in 2016: A ridiculously robust look at the stats, streaks, skids and record-setters". mmajunkie.usatoday.com. Retrieved 2026-01-19.
- ^ Thomas Gerbasi (January 7, 2013). "Ten Best - 2012 Fights of the Year". Ultimate Fighting Championship.
- ^ Thomas Gerbasi (December 25, 2015). "10 Best – Greatest UFC fights of 2015". Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Notes
[edit]- ^ While competing for ONE Championship, Lineker competes at 145 lbs (66 kg). ONE Championship refers to their 145 lb weight class as Bantamweight, but per the Association of Boxing Commissions in the United States, 145 lbs is considered Featherweight.
External links
[edit]John Lineker
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Childhood in Brazil
John Lineker was born on June 12, 1990, in Paranaguá, a coastal city in the state of Paraná, Brazil.[9][10] He grew up in a working-class family in Paranaguá, where his father worked as a mechanic to support the household, which included Lineker's two brothers and two adopted sisters.[11] The family's modest socioeconomic background shaped a simple, community-oriented lifestyle, with the children spending much of their time playing outdoors in the streets near their home.[11] Lineker has described his early years as filled with hyperactivity and typical childhood activities, such as playing soccer, hide-and-seek, and even chasing horses around the neighborhood, reflecting a carefree yet physically active daily routine in the coastal environment.[11] As a child, Lineker faced bullying primarily due to his short stature, with taller peers calling him a "dwarf" and patting him on the head, which made him unpopular at the time.[11] These experiences, though not fully recognized as bullying in his youth, led to frequent fights where he would exchange punches to defend himself, fostering early resilience and a determination to stand up for himself, as his father warned that if he got beaten up in street fights, he would face punishment at home.[11] This adversity sparked his interest in physical activities as a means of building strength and confidence, eventually prompting a brief transition to boxing training around age 12 as a way to channel his energy and respond to the challenges.[11]Introduction to combat sports
John Lineker's introduction to combat sports began at the age of 12, when he was inspired by the life story of Brazilian boxing champion Acelino "Popó" Freitas, whose journey from humble beginnings to world title success ignited Lineker's dream of becoming a fighter.[11] This motivation was compounded by experiences of bullying during his childhood in Brazil, which prompted him to seek out boxing as a means of self-defense and empowerment.[11] Lineker began his early training in local gyms in his hometown, where he quickly adapted despite his small and skinny frame. He regularly sparred with older and larger opponents, honing his technique against those who outweighed him significantly.[12] Additionally, around age 14, Lineker worked as a bricklayer's helper, pounding concrete and carrying heavy loads, which he says helped develop his knockout power.[13] These sessions built the foundation of his aggressive, power-oriented fighting style, emphasizing relentless pressure and precise striking.[14] During these youth boxing sessions, Lineker's coaches first recognized his exceptional punching power, with peers noting that his hits felt like stone despite his small size, leading to the origin of his enduring nickname "Hands of Stone" (or "Mão de Pedra" in Portuguese).[13] Lineker's initial amateur boxing experiences further reinforced this realization, as he competed in local bouts starting around age 16, accumulating early wins that showcased his developing ability to end fights decisively.[12]Mixed martial arts career
Early professional bouts (2008–2011)
John Lineker made his professional mixed martial arts debut at the age of 18 on September 5, 2008, in a local Brazilian event, where he secured a first-round TKO victory over Mauricio Alves via punches at just 0:56 into the bout at Paranaguá Fight 2.[4] He quickly followed this with another emphatic win on November 11, 2008, knocking out Heriton Alves in the opening round at Paranaguá Fight 3, demonstrating early promise in his striking ability derived from a boxing background.[4] Throughout 2009, Lineker fought ten times in regional Brazilian promotions such as Floripa Fight Championship, Nitrix Show Fight, Predador FC, Blackout FC, Samurai FC, and Brazilian Fight League, compiling a 5-5 record that included notable knockouts and decisions alongside setbacks like a first-round submission loss to Adriano Dias and decision defeats to Andre Luis de Souza and Rafael Silva.[4] These experiences highlighted his aggressive style but exposed grappling vulnerabilities, prompting adaptations that integrated basic submissions and takedown defense into his boxing-rooted offense.[15] In 2010, Lineker embarked on a dominant win streak, defeating opponents like Larry Passos Vargas and Israel Silva by decision in events including Full Heroes Battle 2 and K.O. Fight 3, building confidence in his evolving MMA skill set with six straight victories that refined his ability to mix striking with ground control.[5] This momentum carried into 2011, where he went undefeated in seven bouts, showcasing knockout power and versatility, culminating in a 13-fight winning streak. A pivotal achievement came on February 18, 2011, at Nitrix Champion Fight 6, as part of the Bantamweight Grand Prix; Lineker advanced through the semifinals with a unanimous decision over Diego D'Avila after three rounds, then claimed the tournament title in the final by TKO'ing Alessandro Cordeiro with punches at 3:44 of the first round.[15][16] These finishes underscored his improving finishing ability, with the Cordeiro knockout exemplifying his precision punching under fatigue. Lineker's Jungle Fight run further solidified his rise, beginning with a first-round rear-naked choke submission of Renato Velame on April 21, 2011, at Jungle Fight 27, followed by a rapid 1:18 knockout of Luiz Carlos Alves Neves via punch on May 21 at Jungle Fight 28.[15] He continued with a third-round TKO of Francisco Figueiredo on July 30 at Jungle Fight 30, before capturing the Jungle Fight Bantamweight Championship on September 10, 2011, at Jungle Fight 32, via split decision over Iliarde Santos in a hard-fought three-round war.[4][17] Over the 2008–2011 period, Lineker amassed a 20–5 professional record in regional Brazilian circuits, transforming from a pure striker into a more complete fighter capable of finishes across methods while maintaining his signature knockout threat.[18]Ultimate Fighting Championship tenure (2012–2019)
Lineker entered the Ultimate Fighting Championship in late 2011 after compiling a 13-fight winning streak on the Brazilian regional scene, capped by capturing the Jungle Fight bantamweight championship.[18] He made his promotional debut on May 5, 2012, at UFC on Fox: Diaz vs. Miller, competing at flyweight against Louis Gaudinot and suffering a second-round technical submission loss via guillotine choke.[4] Despite the setback, Lineker quickly rebounded with a unanimous decision victory over Yasuhiro Urushitani at UFC on Fuel TV 6 later that year, marking his first win inside the Octagon.[4] Remaining at flyweight, Lineker built momentum with three straight finishes in 2013: a second-round TKO of Azamat Gashimov at UFC on FX 8, a second-round TKO against Jose Maria Tome (after weighing in four pounds over the limit at UFC 163), and a first-round knockout of Phil Harris at UFC Fight Night 30.[4] These performances established him as a dangerous striker in the division, but he encountered his first significant test in February 2014 at UFC 169, dropping a unanimous decision to top contender Ali Bagautinov.[4] Lineker responded with back-to-back wins later that year and into 2015, securing a third-round TKO over Alptekin Ozkilic at UFC Fight Night 45 and a unanimous decision against Ian McCall at UFC 183, positioning him as a flyweight prospect.[4] In September 2015, Lineker moved up to the bantamweight division and notched a first-round submission win via guillotine choke against Francisco Rivera at UFC 191, signaling a successful weight class transition.[4] He followed with a unanimous decision over Rob Font at UFC 198 in 2016, then delivered a dominant first-round knockout of Michael McDonald—former title challenger—at UFC Fight Night 91, propelling him into the official UFC bantamweight top 10. Lineker's momentum peaked in October 2016 with a hard-fought split decision victory over fellow top contender John Dodson in the main event of UFC Fight Night 96, a bout that elevated him to as high as No. 3 in the bantamweight rankings.[19] This run highlighted his adaptation to the higher weight class and international competition, where he refined his aggressive pressure style against elite opponents while adjusting to frequent travel and language barriers from his Brazilian roots.[17] Lineker's ascent was halted in December 2016 at UFC 207, where he lost a unanimous decision to former bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw in a high-profile matchup, as Dillashaw utilized superior wrestling to control the fight.[20] He regained form with a unanimous decision over Marlon Vera at UFC Fight Night 119 in 2017 and a third-round knockout of Brian Kelleher at UFC 224 in 2018, both victories that reaffirmed his top-10 status and knockout power.[4] However, a split decision loss to rising prospect Cory Sandhagen at UFC Fight Night 150 in April 2019 marked the end of his UFC run.[4] Over seven years, Lineker compiled an overall UFC record of 12-4, with six of those wins coming at bantamweight.[21] Throughout his tenure, Lineker faced ongoing challenges with weight management, missing the flyweight or bantamweight limit five times across multiple camps, which led to fines, catchweight bouts, and periods of inactivity due to injuries and rehydration issues.[22] After the Sandhagen defeat and subsequent withdrawal from a scheduled bout, Lineker publicly requested either a new fight booking or his release in May 2019, citing frustration over limited opportunities.[22] The UFC granted his release on July 2, 2019, ending his time with the promotion amid these weight-related hurdles and a cooling performance trend.ONE Championship era (2019–2024)
Lineker made his ONE Championship debut on October 25, 2019, defeating Muin Gafurov by unanimous decision after three rounds of aggressive striking exchanges at ONE: Dawn of Valor.[23] Following this, he secured a second-round TKO victory over former ONE Interim Bantamweight Champion Kevin Belingon on October 30, 2020, via punches at ONE: Inside the Matrix 3, earning him the top spot in the bantamweight rankings.[24] His momentum continued with a first-round knockout of Troy Worthen on April 21, 2021, at ONE on TNT 3, dropping his opponent with a powerful right hand just 4:35 into the bout.[25] These quick finishes, combined with his UFC tenure, positioned Lineker as the leading contender for the ONE Bantamweight World Championship.[26] On March 11, 2022, at ONE: Lights Out, Lineker challenged longtime champion Bibiano Fernandes and captured the title with a second-round knockout via left hand at 3:40, ending Fernandes' dominant reign in emphatic fashion.[6] His first title defense came against Fabricio Andrade on October 21, 2022, at ONE on Prime Video 3, but the bout ended in a no contest at 2:44 of the third round due to an accidental low blow that left Lineker unable to continue.[27] In the highly anticipated rematch on February 24, 2023, at ONE Fight Night 7, Andrade reclaimed the belt with a fourth-round TKO victory after Lineker's corner stopped the fight at 5:00 amid accumulating damage.[28] Undeterred, Lineker began his comeback with a dramatic third-round knockout of Jae Woong Kim on August 4, 2023, at ONE Fight Night 13, landing a flurry of punches with just four seconds remaining to secure the win at 4:56.[29] He followed this with a unanimous decision victory over second-ranked Stephen Loman on September 29, 2023, at ONE Fight Night 14, outstriking his opponent over three rounds to reestablish himself as a top contender.[30] Lineker's ONE MMA run concluded on January 28, 2024, at ONE 165, where he stepped in on short notice as an openweight replacement for Sage Northcutt but was submitted by Shinya Aoki via rear-naked choke at 3:00 of the first round.[31] This loss prompted Lineker to shift focus toward striking arts competitions, marking the end of his active MMA tenure in ONE.[32] Over nine bouts from 2019 to 2024, Lineker compiled a 6-2 record with one no contest, including the brief championship reign.[4]Striking arts career
Muay Thai competitions (2024–present)
Lineker made his professional Muay Thai debut on September 6, 2024, at ONE 168: Denver, defeating Asa Ten Pow via knockout in the second round with a series of powerful strikes that overwhelmed the American fighter.[33] His renowned knockout power from an MMA background proved a seamless carryover, allowing him to dictate the pace early and secure the finish.[34] Building momentum, Lineker faced Alexey Balyko on October 4, 2024, at ONE Fight Night 25 in Bangkok, where he delivered a devastating left hook knockout just 2:12 into the first round, showcasing his ability to adapt punches and combinations to Muay Thai's allowance for elbows and knees.[35] This victory highlighted his evolving striking arsenal, as he incorporated clinch pressure while maintaining aggressive forward movement against a durable opponent.[8] Lineker encountered his first professional Muay Thai defeat on January 10, 2025, at ONE Fight Night 27, dropping a unanimous decision to Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai in a catchweight bout at Lumpinee Stadium.[36] The loss underscored adaptation challenges, particularly Muay Thai's extended clinch exchanges, knee strikes, and 10-point must scoring system—elements less emphasized in MMA—where Kulabdam's technical volume and damage accumulation proved decisive despite Lineker's early aggression and a knockdown.[37] As of November 2025, Lineker maintains a 2-1 professional Muay Thai record under ONE Championship.[1] To elevate his game, he has explored intensive training adjustments, including potential relocation to Thailand for specialized camps focused on clinch work and endurance under full Muay Thai rules.[38] Lineker has voiced ambitions to pursue the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Championship, aiming for high-profile bouts to position himself as a contender in the division.[39]Kickboxing debut and bouts (2025–present)
Lineker made his professional kickboxing debut on March 23, 2025, at ONE 172 in Saitama, Japan, facing former ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion Hiroki Akimoto in a three-round bout.[40] The fight was a high-paced striking exchange, with Lineker pressing forward aggressively using his signature power punches, while Akimoto countered with precise kicks and knees. Despite a controversial moment where Lineker complained about an illegal clinch by Akimoto, the bout went the distance, ending in a split decision victory for Akimoto (29-28, 28-29, 29-28).[41][40] The kickboxing ruleset presented distinct challenges for Lineker, who transitioned from MMA—where grappling and ground fighting are integral—and recent Muay Thai bouts that allow clinching and elbows. Under ONE's kickboxing format, the absence of clinch work and ground elements forced Lineker to rely solely on stand-up striking without his usual wrestling transitions or close-range control, limiting his ability to dictate pace against Akimoto's technical footwork. This adaptation highlighted the discipline's emphasis on pure kickboxing exchanges, differing markedly from the multifaceted strategies Lineker employed in MMA and the clinch-heavy Muay Thai rules he had recently navigated successfully.[42][40] Following the debut, Lineker reflected on the loss as a learning experience in a multi-sport career, emphasizing his intent to stay active through striking bouts for financial stability while awaiting an MMA title rematch opportunity in ONE Championship. As a father of six, he viewed the kickboxing outing as a way to generate income without idling, drawing confidence from prior Muay Thai knockouts that honed his stand-up prowess. With a kickboxing record of 0-1 as of mid-2025, Lineker expressed ambitions to contend in the division or pursue hybrid competitions, while prioritizing a return to MMA against Fabricio Andrade.[43][44]Personal life
Family background
John Lineker has been married to Jacklyne Lineker since January 12, 2013, forming a long-term partnership that has been central to his personal life.[45] The couple's family has grown steadily, with Lineker becoming a father to six children as of March 2025, including the birth of their fifth child, daughter Eloah, on January 24, 2023.[46][43] Lineker's family provides unwavering support for his athletic career, with the household based in Paranaguá, Brazil, to facilitate his training at local facilities while allowing him to remain close to his loved ones during preparation periods.[38] He has occasionally traveled abroad for specialized camps, such as a temporary stint in Thailand from September 2024 to January 2025, but prioritizes returning to his family in Paranaguá to maintain stability.[38] Fatherhood serves as a profound motivation for Lineker's fight selections and ongoing commitment to combat sports, driving him to pursue opportunities that ensure financial provision and a better future for his children.[47][48] This paternal drive also influences his thoughts on retirement, as he weighs continuing to compete against the desire to spend more quality time with his growing family after achieving his goals.[32] In contrast to the bullying and economic hardships of his childhood in Brazil, Lineker's current family life represents a foundation of stability and emotional fulfillment.[49]Business and post-fighting activities
In 2024, Lineker launched his construction company, Maos de Pedra, in Brazil to establish a stable income stream beyond his fighting career.[50][43] This venture reflects his proactive approach to financial security as he navigates transitions in combat sports.[51] In March 2025 interviews, Lineker discussed his financial planning strategies at age 35, emphasizing the need for diversification to support his post-MMA life.[43] He highlighted the construction business as a key element in this planning, which has taken on added importance after his kickboxing debut loss to Hiroki Akimoto in March 2025.[52] Lineker maintains strong ties to Brazilian martial arts through his long-term affiliation with OCS Jiu-Jitsu in Paraná, where he continues to train and contribute to the local fighting community.[10] Looking toward retirement, Lineker has expressed ambitions to capture dual championships in MMA and Muay Thai during 2025, viewing these pursuits as a strategic bridge to sustain his legacy while preparing for life after competition.[53][39]Championships and accomplishments
Mixed martial arts
- Jungle Fight Bantamweight Championship (1 time; won September 10, 2011)[54]
- ONE Bantamweight World Championship (1 time; September 30, 2022 – January 27, 2023)[1]
Striking arts
No major championships as of November 2025.Mixed martial arts record
| Result | Opponent | Event | Method | Round | Time | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loss | Shinya Aoki | ONE Championship - ONE 165: Superlek vs. Takeru | Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) | 1 | 3:00 | Jan 28, 2024 | Tokyo, Japan |
| Win | Stephen Loman | ONE Championship - ONE on Prime Video 14: Stamp vs. Ham | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Sep 29, 2023 | Singapore |
| Win | Jae Woong Kim | ONE Championship - ONE on Prime Video 13: Allazov vs. Grigorian | KO (Punches) | 3 | 4:56 | Aug 04, 2023 | Manila, Philippines |
| Loss | Fabricio Andrade | ONE Championship - ONE on Prime Video 7: Lineker vs. Andrade 2 | TKO (Corner Stoppage) | 4 | 5:00 | Feb 24, 2023 | Manila, Philippines |
| No Contest | Fabricio Andrade | ONE Championship - ONE on Prime Video 3 - Lineker vs. Andrade | No Contest (Accidental Knee) | 3 | 2:44 | Oct 21, 2022 | Singapore |
| Win | Bibiano Fernandes | ONE Championship - Lights Out | KO (Punch) | 2 | 3:40 | Mar 11, 2022 | Pasay, Philippines |
| Win | Troy Worthen | ONE Championship - ONE on TNT 3 | KO (Punch) | 1 | 4:35 | Apr 07, 2021 | Pasay, Philippines |
| Win | Kevin Belingon | ONE Championship - Inside the Matrix 3 | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 1:16 | Oct 30, 2020 | Singapore |
| Win | Muin Gafurov | ONE Championship - Dawn of Valor | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Oct 25, 2019 | Jakarta, Indonesia |
| Loss | Cory Sandhagen | UFC Fight Night: Jacaré vs. Hermansson | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | Apr 27, 2019 | Fortaleza, Brazil |
| Win | Brian Kelleher | UFC 224: Nunes vs. Pennington | KO (Punch) | 3 | 3:43 | May 12, 2018 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Win | Marlon Vera | UFC Fight Night: Brunson vs. Machida | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Oct 28, 2017 | Sao Paulo, Brazil |
| Loss | T.J. Dillashaw | UFC 207: Nunes vs. Rousey | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Dec 30, 2016 | Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. |
| Win | John Dodson | UFC Fight Night: Lineker vs. Dodson | Decision (Split) | 5 | 5:00 | Oct 01, 2016 | Portland, Oregon, U.S. |
| Win | Michael McDonald | UFC Fight Night: McDonald vs. Lineker | KO (Punches) | 1 | 2:43 | Jul 13, 2016 | Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S. |
| Win | Rob Font | UFC 198: Werdum vs. Miocic | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | May 14, 2016 | Curitiba, Brazil |
| Win | Francisco Rivera | UFC 191: Johnson vs. Dodson 2 | Submission (Guillotine Choke) | 1 | 2:08 | Sep 05, 2015 | Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. |
| Win | Ian McCall | UFC 183: Silva vs. Diaz | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Jan 31, 2015 | Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. |
| Win | Alptekin Ozkilic | UFC Fight Night: Cowboy vs. Miller | TKO (Punches) | 3 | 4:51 | Jul 16, 2014 | Atlantic City, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Loss | Ali Bagautinov | UFC 169: Barão vs. Faber 2 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Feb 01, 2014 | Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Win | Phil Harris | UFC Fight Night: Machida vs. Muñoz | KO (Punch to the Body) | 1 | 2:51 | Oct 26, 2013 | Manchester, England |
| Win | Jose Maria Tome | UFC 163: Aldo vs. Korean Zombie | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 1:03 | Aug 03, 2013 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Win | Azamat Gashimov | UFC on FX: Belfort vs. Rockhold | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 1:07 | May 18, 2013 | Jaraguá do Sul, Brazil |
| Win | Yasuhiro Urushitani | UFC on Fuel TV: Franklin vs. Le | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Nov 10, 2012 | Macau |
| Loss | Louis Gaudinot | UFC on Fox: Diaz vs. Miller | Technical Submission (Guillotine) | 2 | 4:54 | May 05, 2012 | East Rutherford, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Win | Iliarde Santos | Jungle Fight 32: Sao Paulo | Decision (Split) | 3 | 5:00 | Sep 10, 2011 | Sao Paulo, Brazil |
| Win | Francisco Figueiredo | Jungle Fight 30 | TKO (Punches) | 3 | 0:36 | Jul 30, 2011 | Belem, Brazil |
| Win | Luiz Carlos Alves Neves | Jungle Fight 28: Rio de Janeiro | KO (Punch) | 1 | 1:18 | May 21, 2011 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Win | Renato Velame | Jungle Fight 27: Brasilia | Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) | 1 | 2:58 | Apr 21, 2011 | Brasilia, Brazil |
| Win | Saulo Martins | Shooto Brazil 22: Markes vs. Lima | TKO (Punches) | 1 | 3:30 | Apr 01, 2011 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Win | Diego Davella | NCF - Nitrix Champion Fight 6 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Feb 19, 2011 | Balneario Camboriu, Brazil |
| Win | Alessandro Cordeiro | NCF - Nitrix Champion Fight 6 | TKO (Punches) | 1 | 3:44 | Feb 19, 2011 | Balneario Camboriu, Brazil |
| Win | Felipe Alves | GFC - Gladiators Fighting Championship 2 | Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) | 2 | 2:05 | Oct 16, 2010 | Curitiba, Brazil |
| Win | Alvino Jose Torres | Shooto Brazil 18: Inocente vs. Moia | Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) | 2 | 0:00 | Sep 17, 2010 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Win | Jetron Pereira | GFC - Gladiators Fighting Championship 1 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | May 08, 2010 | Curitiba, Brazil |
| Win | Israel Silva | K.O. - Fight 3 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Apr 10, 2010 | Brazil |
| Win | Larry Passos Vargas | FHB - Full Heroes Battle 2 | Disqualification (Punches) | 2 | 5:00 | Feb 05, 2010 | Brazil |
| Win | Cica Cica | FHB - Full Heroes Battle 2 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Feb 05, 2010 | Brazil |
| Loss | Rafael Silva | WC - Warrior's Challenge 4 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Dec 30, 2009 | Brazil |
| Win | Wagner Campos | BFL - Brazilian Fight League 5 | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 0:00 | Dec 19, 2009 | Brazil |
| Loss | Andre Luis de Souza | Samurai FC - Samurai Fight Combat | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Sep 12, 2009 | Cotia, Brazil |
| Loss | Erick da Silva | BFC - Blackout FC 3 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Sep 05, 2009 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Loss | Felipe Arantes | PF - Paranagua Fight 5 | Submission (Armbar) | 1 | 1:12 | Aug 07, 2009 | Paranagua, Brazil |
| Win | Marcio Sapo | Nitrix - Show Fight 2 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | May 16, 2009 | Sao Jose, Brazil |
| Win | Alexandre Chatuba | VIP - Stage 3 | TKO (Punches) | 2 | 0:00 | May 02, 2009 | Joinville, Brazil |
| Loss | Nelson Velasques | GF - Golden Fighters 1 | Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) | 1 | 4:02 | Apr 18, 2009 | Joinville, Brazil |
| Win | Claudionei Rodrigues Lacerda | FF - Floripa Fight 5 | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | Mar 07, 2009 | Florianopolis, Brazil |
| Win | Heriton Alves | PF - Paranagua Fight 3 | KO | 1 | 0:00 | Nov 11, 2008 | Paranagua, Brazil |
| Win | Mauricio Alves | PF - Paranagua Fight 2 | TKO | 2 | 1:25 | Sep 05, 2008 | Paranagua, Brazil |
Muay Thai and kickboxing record
Muay Thai record
| Result | Record | Opponent | Method | Event | Date | Round | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Win | 1–0 | Asa Ten Pow | KO (punch) | ONE 168: Denver | September 6, 2024 | 2 | 1:45 | Denver, Colorado, US [55] |
| Win | 2–0 | Alexey Balyko | KO (left hook) | ONE Fight Night 25 | October 4, 2024 | 1 | 2:32 | Bangkok, Thailand [56] |
| Loss | 2–1 | Kulabdam Sor. Jor. Piek Uthai | Unanimous decision (29–27, 29–27, 29–27) | ONE Fight Night 27 | January 10, 2025 | 3 | 3:00 | Bangkok, Thailand [57] |
Kickboxing record
| Result | Record | Opponent | Method | Event | Date | Round | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loss | 0–1 | Hiroki Akimoto | Split decision (29–28, 28–29, 29–28) | ONE 172 | March 23, 2025 | 3 | 3:00 | Saitama, Japan [58] |
References
- Former ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion John Lineker made his professional mixed martial arts debut in September 2008, and in the ensuing decade has ...Missing: biography sources
- May 21, 2025 · Former ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion John Lineker says that his rivalry with current titleholder Fabricio “Wonder Boy” Andrade is not yet over.
- View the profile of the MMA fighter John Lineker from Brazil on ESPN. Get the latest news, live stats and MMA fight highlights.
- John "Hands of Stone" Lineker MMA Stats, Pictures, News, Videos, Biography - Sherdog.com.Missing: sources | Show results with:sources
