Cyclohexanone is largely generated in the direct or indirect conversion of lignin-derived bio-oils. Hence, the upgrading of cyclohexanone, i.e. deoxygenation in the presence of hydrogen is of great interest. In this regard, two nickel-molybdenum catalysts on alumina support were investigated in the temperatures up to 400 degrees C and pressures up to 15 bar. High activity, selectivity, and yield were achieved by utilizing these catalysts at the studied condition. The main products of the upgrading of cyclohexanone were C-6, C-7, and C-12 cyclic, aromatic, and bicyclic including cyclohexane, cyclohexene, benzene, and cyclohexylbenzene. The results of the present study imply that these catalysts are beneficial in producing hydrocarbon-rich products from cyclohexanone and lignin- derived bio-oils. Based on the achievements of the present study, the nickel-molybdenum catalyst composed of 1.14 wt% nickel and 14.27 wt% molybdenum showed about 87%, 100%, and 116% conversion of cyclohexanone, total hydrocarbon selectivity, and total hydrocarbon yield, respectively. The optimum condition for obtaining such results was at 400 degrees C and 8 bar. (C) 2020 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.