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NFL Coach Paid Tribute to Derrick Lewis After Playoff Clinching Win

Mike Tomlin is a fan of heavyweight knockout artist Derrick Lewis.

Shortly after the Pittsburgh Steelers clinched a playoff berth with a harrowing 26-24 victory over the Baltimore Ravens this past Sunday, the veteran coach celebrated by beating his chest and blowing a kiss — a move patented by “The Black Beast.”

That was no accident, Tomlin said in a recent interview with Rich Eisen.

“That’s a tip of the cap to one of my favorite MMA competitors, Derrick Lewis,” Tomlin said. “That’s his celebration.”

A Matter of Respect

Lewis is a fan favorite UFC heavyweight thanks to both his penchant for knockouts and his sense of humor.