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Brendan Loughnane kicked his way to a knockout win over former UFC title challenger Marlon Moraes as he launched his PFL title defence in Las Vegas.<\/span><\/p>\n The 33-year-old, crowned featherweight champion last year, left his opponent unable to return to his feet in the second round after a series of brutal leg kicks.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n Defeat was Brazilian Moraes’ sixth in succession, all inside the distance.<\/span><\/p>\n “I just wanted violence,” said Loughnane, now on a five-win streak.<\/span><\/p>\n “I was sat in the back falling asleep watching the fights. I had to come out and save the day, that’s what I did.<\/span><\/p>\n “I think my message was clear, my message is I am coming back for my belt. I don’t believe in starting again, that was my first title defence.”<\/span><\/p>\n Loughnane, the PFL’s first British champion, attacked Moraes’ legs from the start and the Brazilian, already appearing to be struggling, was saved by the first-round bell.<\/span><\/p>\n Despite concerns he would not return for the second round, the 34-year-old came out fighting with big punches that initially startled Loughnane.<\/span><\/p>\n But the Mancunian soon reclaimed control, sending a grimacing Moraes to the canvas, where he would remain, with a kick to the left shin.<\/span><\/p>\n The PFL has a seasonal format, where athletes of each division qualify from groups to reach semi-finals followed by the final.<\/span><\/p>\n