It didn’t come easy, but Bryan “El Gallo” Duran extended his epic winning streak in the Squared Circle at BKFC 57 on Friday.
Duran is now 6-0 with six stoppage victories – the only fighter in BKFC history to accomplish that feat – after his fourth-round KO over Louis Lopez at the sold-out Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino at Hollywood, FL.
The fast-rising Miami product seemed to have his hands full against Lopez, the No. 1 contender in the loaded BKFC featherweight division. The two 145-pound contenders dropped each other, forcing Duran to pick himself up off the canvas for the first time in his BKFC career.
Some fighters would be discouraged from getting knocked down in a fight. But, as “El Gallo” says, it’s a lot more important how you respond.
“It’s an amazing feeling to know that I could get back up and finish him. It was a great fight, man. I’m glad it happened because it showed everybody that adversity is nothing but a stepping stone for me,” Duran says.
“I’ve got nothing but respect for Louie,” he adds. “He’s at the top of the division for a reason.”
Duran will likely assume Lopez’s spot as the No. 1 contender in the BKFC 145-pound weight class, which could pave the way to the next shot at reigning BKFC World Featherweight Champion Kai Stewart (5-0).
Duran has a simple prediction for a possible showdown with Stewart.
“Knockout in the first or second round, for sure.”
Having the belt around his waist would be amazing, Duran says, but he has other ambitions in the Squared Circle.
“Whatever Mr. Feldman thinks is best for me, that’s what we’re going to do. I’m not pursuing the belt – I’m pursuing improvement and sharpening my skills,” he says.
“I want the biggest check in BKFC history – that’s my goal.”
