Fans running around a ring lose face (9)

I believe the answer is:

following

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'face' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both acts as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for following that I've seen before include "Body of supporters" , "fans?" , "Understanding" , "Next after" , "about to be mentioned" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.

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