Jung Min-ho has worked as a staff writer at The Korea Times since 2012, mostly covering social and political issues. He currently belongs to the Politics & City Desk where he covers topics such as health, labor and human rights. Prior to joining the team, he was responsible for covering North Korea and sports. His article about a biosecurity breach of Middle East respiratory syndrome won him an award from the Korea Science Journalists Association in 2016. He is also the co-author of the book, "Medical Pioneers of Korea" (2019). He served as the head of the international relations committee at the Journalists Association of Korea from 2021 to 2023.
French fighter wins Road FC lightweight title, $1 million prize
Challenger Mansour Barnaoui defeats lightweight champion Kwon A-sol at Road FC 53 on Jeju Island, Saturday. Courtesy of Road FC
By Jung Min-ho
Barnaoui strikes the champ with his elbow. Courtesy of Road FC
China's Aorigele throws a punch at Korea's Jae-hyeok during their heavyweight fight. Courtesy of Road FC
By Jung Min-ho
Mansour Barnaoui has claimed the Road FC lightweight title and $1 million prize money after defeating champion Kwon A-sol in just three minutes and 34 seconds.
At Road FC 53 on Jeju Island Saturday, the Frenchman, 26, dominated the Korean opponent, 32, both on the feet and the ground before finishing the fight with a rear-naked choke in the very first round.
It was a humiliating loss for Kwon, who had not fought for 29 months. His slow, dull punches barely bothered Barnaoui, who responded with fast, accurate punches and knees.
“I'm so sorry for disappointing you all,” Kwon said. “I will come back stronger, and challenge him for the title. I hope he will be able to keep the belt until then.”
In the co-main event, China's Aorigele knocked out Heo Jae-hyeok in 50 seconds in their heavyweight bout.