Derrick Lewis doesn't have many high expectations for the remainder of Stipe Miocic's career.
Lewis, the No. 2-ranked heavyweight, said he believes Miocic is on a downward trajectory after losing the UFC heavyweight title to Francis Ngannou by second-round knockout in March.
"I think this might be it for Stipe," Lewis told The Schmo earlier this week. "I believe that he's punch drunk. He's been hit too many times. So I don't think that he's going to go anywhere else in his career from this (loss)."
Miocic, who defended the heavyweight belt a record four times across two reigns, is widely considered the greatest heavyweight in UFC history. However, his last two losses were both brutal knockouts.
The 38-year-old has recently said he plans to add about 20 pounds to his frame and hopes to recapture the title in a trilogy bout with Ngannou later in 2021. Lewis, though, doesn't see Miocic enjoying a third championship reign.
Lewis is expected to get the first shot at Ngannou's belt, but the fight has not yet been finalized. "The Black Beast" has won four straight matches and holds a win over Ngannou in 2018.