A huge challenge awaits him soon – Prague’s O2 Arena and a showdown with local legend Karlos Vémola, who’s taken up his dangerous challenge. How is he feeling right now? We got all the answers from the fiery Will Fleury.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/cabf396c-fdf1-4cc3-ab53-dd29e1505f98/cs.1734626986351.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/6146175a-6981-4fc0-800a-f3e464a6a625/cs.1734626991326.png"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent>What does it mean to you personally to close out the year with a fight against someone like Vemola in front of a sold-out O2 arena? Have you thought about how a victory might impact your career and life outside the cage?Yeah, obviously it would be life-changing for me. When I signed with OKTAGON, this is exactly how I set things out in my head – take out some of the top guys in the division and then go to the Karlos fight. And I've made this happen.How do you approach a fight of this magnitude mentally? Does the size of the event or the crowd’s reaction affect your focus?I don't really care to be honest. If I'm the bad guy, great. If I'm the good guy, who cares. All I want to do is go in and create something that's like, wow, sh*t, this guy's a really good fighter. And afterwards, whether you love me or hate me, you'll be like, f*ck, he is a good fighter.What kind of reaction are you expecting from Czech fans? To be honest, what I noticed in Slovakia was that Karlos wasn't very popular. A lot of people were coming over to me telling me they hope I whoop his a**, even Czech people. Karlos has a reputation for trying to get inside his opponents’ heads. How do you handle his psychological tactics?Every fight is a mental battle as well, but I feel if your technique is good enough, it's very easy to be confident. For me, the mental preparation is also the physical preparation. If I know how you're about to move and I can predict this and I can hit you, it's pretty easy to be confident now. I can hit you and you can't hit me. This is a lot of power and I feel like with Karlos, I'm going to create that situation. That's why when we're starting to talk sh*t to each other, I can look him in the eyes and smile and say, I'm going to f*ck you up.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1076"></oktfightcomponent>Your fighting style is known for being direct and uncompromising. When you're in the cage, how much of your strategy is pre-planned versus relying on instincts and improvisation?Yeah, I think watching your opponent is huge. I think it's very important to do a lot of video work on the guy to understand how he's going to move and to understand how you're going to sequence what he does. If I give you this, how will you react? And now it's possible that on the night his reaction will be different. So it's like, okay, you're giving him two options. Is he going for A or B? And now I've learned techniques worked out from this. I think this is your job. If you're going to be a professional fighter, be professional. Do your homework beforehand. Watch the guy.Do you ever avoid over-analyzing your opponent to stay adaptable during the fight?There'll be situations like sometimes I like to enter a spar where I don't know the guy at all. And you just have to read it on the day because there will be situations in a fight where people are going to do unpredictable things. Get used to the chaos in one way, but also you can predict chaos a lot of the time. And if I know how you're going to move, I can exploit this very easily.Looking back to the very beginning, what first attracted you to MMA? What made you decide to commit to it as a career?I think the fact that I knew I would get a reward for the effort that I put into it. A fight is obviously a very tough situation mentally to enter into. I was always like, that won't bother me. I know that if I prepare properly, I can beat anybody. I always believed that. My parents were very good at instilling the belief that if you work hard enough, you can go and achieve anything.Did you fight even as a kid? I got the cr*p beaten out of me by my brothers as a kid a lot, and I felt like, well, if I'm able to stand up to them, I can stand up to anyone because they were so much bigger and older than me. I had that thing of, no, I can keep standing up to these challenges. That belief made me want to pursue MMA.Do you remember your very first MMA training session? What was it like, and how did it influence your decision to keep pursuing the sport?I actually do remember my first training. It's a long time since I thought about this, but it was me and an Algerian guy beating the sh*t out of each other. I loved it. I was really nervous before we started fighting. It wasn't hard sparring or anything; it was just wrestling, but we were so emotional about winning this wrestling thing. He was a really tough guy, obviously, and I was a rugby player, so I was a big, strong guy.How did it turn out?The coach got the two of us to do a couple of rounds at the end of the session. Technique-wise, it was terrible. But from a competition point of view, it was like, right, I want to be the guy. I want to be the man here, and he wanted to be the man really badly. We went for about 15 minutes, just killing each other. Eventually, he got tired, and I won.Your background includes rugby. Do you think the skills or mentality you developed in rugby helped you transition into MMA?It helped in a lot of ways. A double-leg takedown is very similar to a rugby tackle, and the timing and physicality came naturally to me. In rugby, you’re used to collisions with people running toward you, so I wasn’t afraid of hard hits. That mindset carried over to MMA.Do you feel rugby gave you any mental edge when it comes to handling pressure and competition in MMA?Rugby taught me about competition and failure. You try, you fail, and you learn. That mindset carried over to MMA. In rugby, failures aren’t as personal because it’s a team sport, but in MMA, it’s all on you. That’s challenging, but also satisfying because it means you’re in control.What have been the toughest moments of your career so far, and how have they shaped you as a fighter and a person?I’ve had a lot of tough times in this career. Early on, after my pro debut, a Portuguese fighter was killed in Ireland, and MMA was effectively banned. It was very difficult to get my second fight. I had a lot of opponents lined up, and they would pull out, or the shows would be canceled because of insurance purposes. It was very difficult during that period, and I wasn’t making much money. I questioned a lot if I could make this a sustainable career. Was it worth the investment of my time and energy? But I kept going. I was undefeated as an amateur and a pro at the time, and getting signed to Bellator was a big moment for me.What lessons did you learn from your first professional loss, and how did it impact your approach?In my first loss, I overlooked my opponent. He was 6-0 with six knockouts, but because he was a last-minute replacement, I dismissed him. I thought I’d smash him, and that cocky attitude hurt me. I got knocked out in the first round. It was a huge lesson in humility and preparation. That loss, and the ones that followed, taught me to respect every opponent. Without those tough moments, I wouldn’t be as good a fighter today.How do you mentally recover from a tough loss, and what keeps you motivated to improve and move forward?Losses expose you to reality. The more you try to protect yourself from failure, the less you’ll grow. It still bothers me when I think about those moments, but that pain drives me to improve. I’m grateful for those challenges because they shaped who I am as a fighter.What goes through your mind in the final moments before walking out to the cage? Are you nervous, calm, or something else entirely?At that point, I’m actually quite calm. Everything feels mellow and blank because all the work has been done. It’s time to let go and enjoy the moment.How do you mentally prepare for the intensity of the walkout and the fight itself? I love my walkouts. The energy from the crowd, the buzz—it’s amazing. In the warm-up, I get pumped up and feel that nervous energy. But when it’s time to walk out, I find a sense of peace. I've seen it so many times in my own head, and I've visualised the whole thing. It feels like I’m watching myself from the outside. Let your brain take the backseat for a second, just go and be primal Will, and let that guy take over. Will f*cking Fleury, the fighter, he's gonna go in and do his work now. So it's a funny feeling, but I really, really enjoy the intensity of those moments.Do you have any role models, either in sports or outside of it, who inspire you in your approach to life and fighting?Growing up, I admired Irish rugby players like Paul O’Connell and Ronan O’Gara. They were stoic and embraced challenges. As I got older, my focus shifted to becoming my own role model. I hold myself accountable to the person I want to be.If young Will Fleury could meet you now, what do you think he’d say? And if you could give him advice, what would you tell him?I think young Will would be proud overall, though he might disagree with some of my choices. If I could give him advice, I’d tell him not to fear failure. Embrace challenges and take risks because that’s how you grow.Finally, if someone who’s never seen you fight asks, "Why should I watch Will Fleury in the cage?"—what would you say?Because I give everything I have. I fight with intensity and heart, always looking to finish. Love me or hate me, you won’t forget me.<okteventcomponent eventid="98"></okteventcomponent>

Will Fleury opens up about his beginnings and his journey as a fighter in this exclusive interview.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH FLEURY: LOVE ME OR HATE ME, YOU WON’T FORGET ME! 

The Celebrity Series has unleashed emotions within the MMA community the likes of which we haven’t seen in a long time. From the very first announcement, it became a topic that divided fans, sparked heated debates, and often provoked sharp reactions. At the center of it all stands Pavel Tóth—confident, controversial, and impossible to ignore. A man who stepped out of reality TV and into the toughest arena of all: the professional MMA cage.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/7aa9fc28-3152-4e10-a2c8-08bf4f174b7e/cs.1766163046818.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/dd501d51-c8a6-41e5-ac9c-f22f27fd9bc2/cs.1766163054413.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent>What initially looked like a provocation or an April Fool’s joke has now become reality. And the closer the fight gets, the higher the tension rises.<h2>PAVEL TÓTH: FROM REALITY SHOW TO THE REALITY OF THE CAGE</h2>Pavel Tóth, a Love Island contestant and the winner of this year’s Survivor Czech Republic &amp; Slovakia, decided to take a step that very few would dare to take. At just 24 years old, he accepted a challenge with no precedent in Czech-Slovak MMA—entering a professional fight after only a few months of training, and against an opponent who, in Pavel’s own words, has “at least seven wins on his record.”From day one, he became the target of ridicule, criticism, and hateful comments. And it must be said that his own statements fueled the fire—arriving as a newcomer in such a specific environment as MMA and declaring from the outset that he wants to end someone’s career is extremely bold, if not naïve.For many, he became a symbol of everything that “doesn’t belong” in MMA. But it was precisely this resistance that became his fuel. Booing in arenas, mockery on social media, and skepticism from experts did not discourage him—quite the opposite. Tóth threw himself into preparation with surprising intensity and determination.Under the guidance of Petr “Monster” Kníže and Karlos “Terminator” Vémola, he began to improve rapidly. OKTAGON closely documented his journey, allowing fans to watch a television celebrity gradually transform into a fighter who takes the challenge seriously. And this is where the turning point came.In recent weeks, some fans have begun to shift to his side. Voices are emerging that Pavel has genuinely improved. Even some active fighters are warning that Tóth may not be completely without a chance against Raška. The question remains: is it enough?<h2>ONDŘEJ RAŠKA: THE VETERAN DEFENDING THE HONOR OF MMA</h2>On the opposite side of the cage stands Ondřej Raška—a man who grew up with OKTAGON from its earliest days. A veterinarian by profession and a professional fighter with a total of 19 bouts inside the cage. Raška has been involved in combat sports for 15 years and has a rich background in both Muay Thai and MMA.However, he has never been among the absolute elite. He often alternated between wins and losses, struggled in big fights, and lost his most recent OKTAGON bout in just 14 seconds by knockout. Paradoxically, it is precisely now that the biggest fight of his career awaits him.Raška is the clear favorite—and that is exactly the problem. In this matchup, he has nothing to gain and everything to lose. A loss to an amateur who has trained for only a few months would not be seen as just a personal defeat. It would be perceived as a failure of the entire MMA community, which Raška symbolically represents.Moreover, history shows that pressure is not his strongest suit. In several key moments of his career, Raška has faltered under the weight of expectations. This time, the pressure is absolute. Nothing is expected of Tóth. Dominance is expected from Raška. Anything else will be considered a failure.<oktinstagramcomponent url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DQhrtacjHC4/"></oktinstagramcomponent><h2>EMOTIONS AND PRESSURE AHEAD OF THE BATTLE</h2>Preparation for both fighters is reaching its peak. Pavel is dealing with health issues, though fortunately not serious enough to prevent him from competing. Raška, on the other hand, will have to battle the weight cut. Instead of the originally planned catchweight, the fight will take place at the official middleweight limit of 84 kg. Those extra kilos could play a crucial role in the final days before the event. Who will handle the weight better?One thing is certain: this fight has long transcended the boundaries of sport. It is a clash of two worlds. A test of courage, ego, mental strength, and the ability to handle pressure. For one man, it could mean a life-changing breakthrough. For the other, an existential crisis.Pavel has the chance to silence all doubters and show that when someone fully commits to something, anything is possible. Raška, meanwhile, will want to prove that some things cannot be rushed overnight and that experience still plays a crucial role in MMA.The Celebrity Series has shown that MMA is not just about records and titles, but above all about emotions and stories. And the fight between Pavel Tóth and Ondřej Raška is one of the strongest stories on the card. No matter who you support, one thing is certain: this fight will leave no one indifferent. The answer to who can handle it mentally will only come when the cage door closes behind them.You still have the chance to watch the entire OKTAGON 81 event live at the O2 Arena. Two title fights, a heated rematch between Kincl and Pukač, and the conclusion of the controversial Celebrity Series—and that’s far from all. This tournament promises a truly spectacular end to the year, and it’s one you don’t want to miss. Get your ticket and watch your heroes live. The last remaining tickets are on sale now!<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

The Celebrity Series has unleashed emotions within the MMA community the likes of which we haven’t seen in a long time. From the very first announcement, it became a topic that divided fans, sparked heated debates, and often provoked sharp reactions.

FINAL LOOK AT THE CELEBRITY SERIES: WHAT CHANCE DOES PAVEL TÓTH HAVE TO SUCCEED?

The main event of OKTAGON 81 will deliver the very best that European MMA currently has to offer. Two men whose stories, physiques, and performances go far beyond the ordinary will step into the cage. Two-division champion Will “Fucking” Fleury will defend the heavyweight title for the first time against Slovakian colossus Martin “Badys” Buday – a former OKTAGON champion and one of the most successful Slovak MMA fighters in history.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/1a60ae7a-5e04-4a51-a59c-90e9bfa06f91/cs.1765983839132.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/3aa3f8dd-a6c5-45ba-a974-1234f28264e6/cs.1765983844028.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>WILL FLEURY: KING OF TWO DIVISIONS IN THE FORM OF HIS LIFE</h2>Will Fleury is currently enjoying the most dominant period of his career. Since joining OKTAGON, he has become the undisputed ruler of the promotion – four wins, no defeats, and two championship belts. He reigns over both the light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions and rightfully holds the clear #1 spot in the OKTAGON pound-for-pound rankings.On his rise to the top, Fleury defeated the absolute elite: Škvor, Langer, Todev, and Karlos Vémola. Each victory told a different story, but the result was always the same – Fleury’s hand raised in triumph. He is well-rounded, intelligent, physically extremely powerful, and mentally unshakable. Fully deservedly, he has established himself at the very peak of the organization as an unstoppable apex predator.Fleury himself openly admits, however, that a fight with Buday represents the greatest challenge of his career. For the first time in OKTAGON, he enters a bout knowing that the man across from him not only has world-class experience, but also physical attributes that could fundamentally alter the dynamics of the fight.<h2>MARTIN BUDAY: THE RETURN FOR A LOST THRONE</h2>Martin Buday is a man you simply cannot miss. A giant by birth, always bigger than those around him. That size, however, defined him outside of sport as well. During his teenage years, he weighed around 160 kilograms, and his initial motivation to start training was not the pursuit of titles, but the desire to change his life.From that paradox, a champion was born. Buday developed into one of the most dangerous heavyweights in Europe, despite being more of a quiet “computer geek” in his youth, capable of sitting in front of games for up to twenty hours straight. To this day, gaming serves as his mental reset – a contrast to the brutal and exhausting nature of elite training.As one of the few heavyweights, Buday actually has to cut weight to make the 120 kg limit, and on one occasion he even missed weight simply because he thought the limit was 125 kg. Even that detail underlines his natural physical size.Buday enjoyed a successful run in the UFC, compiling a 7–1 record and defeating names such as Chris Barnett and legendary Andrei Arlovski. Despite this, he was not offered a new contract. He therefore decided to return to where he once ruled – OKTAGON. Today, he is ranked #43 in the world at heavyweight and belongs among the top five heavyweights outside the UFC. He is not coming to Prague as an outsider. He is coming as a man determined to reclaim his throne.<oktinstagramcomponent url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DSHodnFDOnM/?hl=cs&amp;img_index=1"></oktinstagramcomponent><h2>A BATTLE FOR THE RULE OF THE HEAVYWEIGHT DIVISION</h2>On one side stands Fleury – a two-division champion, P4P number one, and a fighter in the form of his life. On the other side is Buday – a monstrous Slovak phenomenon with global experience, overwhelming physical presence, and more hunger for victory than ever before. This is not just a title fight. This is a collision of two worlds that will define the future of the OKTAGON heavyweight division.A grand finale of the year at the O2 arenaOKTAGON 81 will offer far more than just one fight – but Fleury vs. Buday is the bout that will make history. Two giants. One belt. One answer. December 28, 2025. O2 Arena. Prague. Secure your tickets and be there when it is decided who the true ruler of the OKTAGON heavyweight division really is.<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

The main event of OKTAGON 81 will deliver the very best that European MMA currently has to offer. Two men whose stories, physiques, and performances go far beyond the ordinary will step into the cage..

FLEURY vs. BUDAY: A TITANIC TITLE CLASH OF TWO GIANTS AT THE TOP OF OKTAGON

On Štvanice, he took his first major step toward the European elite. Now he stands before another life-changing challenge. Vojtěch Khol is one of the biggest Czech talents, and in the O2 Arena he will test himself against German prospect Hugo Vach. In our interview, he talks about how he views his opponent, reflects on Štvanice, and reveals what his first post-fight meal will be.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/d761d9fd-1489-412d-a892-8a227aceace8/cs.1765897057984.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/721efde9-2b44-44c5-aa80-ca0d095b29ae/cs.1765897062219.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent>Hi Vojta, how are you feeling a few weeks before the fight, and what phase of preparation are you currently in?I feel great. I’m at the stage where everything is being finalized, sharpened, and fine-tuned. Preparation is, of course, long and demanding, but this final phase is even more important—maintaining maximum focus in training while also being more careful to avoid injuries. Overall, I feel amazing and I’m really looking forward to the fight.Your opponent will be Hugo Vach. How do you see him as a fighter?Honestly, I didn’t know him before, but of course my team and I have studied him now. He’s a well-rounded and very solid fighter. I’m approaching this responsibly and definitely not underestimating him. He’s another opponent who will test my abilities, and I’m looking forward to delivering a great fight together.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1313"></oktfightcomponent>When you think back to your OKTAGON debut, what comes to mind first?Above all, the unbelievable atmosphere at Štvanice. That moment when I walked out. The fans are so incredibly close that it completely absorbs you. When I’m lying on my “deathbed” one day, this will definitely be one of the memories running through my head. It was absolute madness.Štvanice is considered one of OKTAGON’s iconic events. What was it like fighting in such a unique setting?It was an invaluable experience. A beautiful summer event, outdoors. The stadium is built in such a way that even when I was standing in the cage, it felt like the very last row was right next to me. It was a huge experience both personally, because of the atmosphere, and professionally. I accepted the fight on short notice against a very high-quality opponent and was also viewed as the underdog.The fight with Federico was very close and was decided by a guillotine in the third round. How do you evaluate your performance in hindsight? What did the fight give you?It really was close. Federico won the first round, I won the second, and the guillotine decided it in the third. Looking back, there were obviously a lot of mistakes, but you have to judge it in context. I accepted the fight at the last minute, and in six days you can’t really train anything very specific. We focused on a game plan with my coaches, but miracles can’t happen in such a short time.Considering everything, I’m happy with the performance. It gave me confidence and confirmed that when you have your mindset right, anything is possible. It was an honor to fight Federico. Beating such a high-level opponent at an iconic event and submitting a black belt—that’s a fighter’s dream.You’ll be fighting in the O2 Arena for the first time. Is it a dream come true, or are you trying to treat it like any other fight?I try to treat it like any other fight. Of course, I’m aware that Štvanice and the O2 Arena are iconic OKTAGON venues and that every fighter who signs with the organization wants to fight there. It happened for me within a year, which I truly appreciate and am very grateful for.That’s why I’m now trying to be as prepared as possible to deliver my best performance. I’ll enjoy the fact that I’m fighting in the O2 Arena after the fight—when I’m sitting at home with potato salad. Right now, it’s simply another step on my journey.There will be roughly twice as many people in attendance compared to Štvanice. Do you notice the crowd during the fight, or do you get tunnel vision?There may be twice as many people, but it’s dark, dim, and the cage is heavily lit, so you don’t really notice the crowd that much. At Štvanice it was daylight, and it felt like the fans were literally pressed against the cage. I always enjoy the walkout and take in the atmosphere until the cage door closes. After that, it’s tunnel vision—I focus only on my performance, my opponent, and my coaches in the corner.You train under Patrik Kincl and David Dvořák, who will also be fighting on the same card. Will they be in your corner, or will the roles be divided differently?Honestly, we haven’t discussed it yet. I think it will be better to divide the roles. At All Sport Academy, we have a really strong team—Václav Štěpán, Lukáš Chotěnovský, my brother, and other guys who are with me at every training session. For me, it’s important that Patrik and David can fully focus on their own fights. I’ll definitely get advice from them at the hotel and in the locker room, but in the cage itself, the guys from the team will corner me.What is it like when all three of you are in peak fight camp at the same time? Are the sessions harder, or do you take more care due to injury risk?It’s great. We help each other, push each other, motivate one another. You can feel it in training—the atmosphere is excellent, and everyone is fully focused. It’s an honor for me to be on such a stacked card alongside my coaches. I’m enjoying every single moment of this preparation.What does your ideal training day look like? Do you have any rituals you can’t start without?An ideal training day starts with good sleep. Sleep and recovery are the foundation, so that’s my priority. If I sleep well, I feel great. I don’t really have a strict ritual, but I do enjoy a good coffee during the day—ideally a filter coffee.Many people see you as one of the biggest talents of the next generation. What do you think is the most important thing to succeed in MMA today?Sure, people may see me as a talent, but I don’t really play into that. I think this sport is mainly about a fighter’s approach and mindset.I want to be seen more as a regular guy who worked hard for everything. When you have your head straight, know what you want, know what you’re chasing and why you’re doing it, then I think you’re unstoppable. Discipline and mental work are the most important things.How do you think modern MMA differs from MMA 10–15 years ago?In absolutely everything. The level of performances, the quality of fighters, gyms, and coaches. Back then, it was a big deal if 500 or 1,000 people showed up to an event. Today, the biggest arenas across Europe are sold out. MMA has moved forward incredibly. For me, MMA today and MMA 10–15 years ago are almost two completely different sports.A fight at the end of December means dieting over Christmas. How painful is that? And what will be your first meal after the fight?It doesn’t bother me at all. I’m happy that I have another fight. That it falls on the holidays—well, whatever. There are always events during the year: Christmas, Easter, summer holidays. I focus on the fact that I get to fight and that it’s at a beautiful event. And that I’ll eat good food a few days after Christmas? I really don’t care. My first meal will definitely be potato salad with schnitzel. And maybe some Christmas cookies if my mom sends some.What do you do in your free time when you switch off from MMA for a bit? Do you have something that helps you recharge?I like spending time with my family and closest friends. I enjoy being active—going for walks, skating, hiking in the mountains, or going to the sauna. I try to spend time with myself, ideally somewhere in nature, and also give time back to the people closest to me. During fight camp there isn’t much space for that, which makes those moments even more special afterward.One last question about our new essence “Face Your Fear”—what does “facing your fear” mean to you personally?For me, it’s important not to fight fear, but to face it head-on. Fear is something our mind creates—fear of losing, fear of a bad performance, or fear of failing. When I face it directly and have my mindset right, I know that anything is possible. The key is simply not to freak out.And what message would you like to send to the fans who will support you in the O2 Arena?I truly appreciate their support more than they can imagine. Cheer, support me, and I promise I’ll do everything I can to deliver the best possible performance and be the best version of myself. A win would be the cherry on top. We’ll all enjoy the whole evening together. Thank you so much, and see you in the O2 Arena!Not only Vojtěch Khol, but many domestic fighters are now in the final phase of their preparation ahead of OKTAGON 81. Less than two weeks remain until the spectacular conclusion of 2025. Last tickets are still available. If you don’t want to miss this stacked card, click the link below and secure your seat today!<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

On Štvanice, he took his first major step toward the European elite. Now he stands before another life-changing challenge. Vojtěch Khol is one of the biggest Czech talents, and in the O2 Arena he will test himself against German prospect Hugo Vach.

INTERVIEW WITH VOJTĚCH KHOL: ONCE YOU HAVE YOUR MINDSET RIGHT, YOU ARE UNSTOPPABLE

A long-awaited clash of two completely different worlds. Danish firebrand Jonas “Shark” Magard will step into Prague’s O₂ Arena on December 28th to face Brazilian finisher Elvis “Karate Kid” Silva. A battle that could determine the next title challenger—and send one of them straight into the cage with the future champion.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/46f93f97-8710-4e0e-aed3-493c907913ff/cs.1765381868927.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/65e94952-a5e0-4d1b-bacc-55752da4595e/cs.1765381873697.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>JONAS MAGARD: THE SHARK RETURNING FOR BLOOD</h2>Jonas Magard isn’t just a name. He’s a phenomenon. A fighter who built his career on extreme mentality and absolute relentlessness. He often says he is willing to “sacrifice his own life for victory”—and you believe every word.In OKTAGON, he fought for the bantamweight title twice and dominated twice: first destroying Mack, then Lopez. And although he lost the belt in the war with Lima, he walked away from that fight with a lesson that made him an even stronger warrior.The Danish Shark loves the atmosphere in Czechia and Slovakia—he considers the fans the best in Europe. “Here, people appreciate a good fight, not just wins,” he says. Emotions, pressure, boos, applause… Magard feeds off all of it. It powers him. It turns him into a dangerous predator.Now he’s back. In better shape than ever. With one clear goal: reclaim the title that once belonged to him.<h2>ELVIS SILVA: THE EXPERIENCED “KARATE KID” IN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF HIS CAREER</h2>Standing across from him is a man who doesn’t need many words—because his strikes speak for him. Elvis Silva, former champion in Brazil, is an elite striker with a killer instinct. In November, he made waves with a brutal KO at PML, knocking out Mack in just 36 (!) seconds and earning Performance of the Night. And when he entered OKTAGON, he gave the young Paulus absolutely no chance.Silva has 23 professional fights behind him, a wealth of experience, and deadly weapons that can decide a fight in an instant. His explosiveness, precision, and ability to punish mistakes make him an unpredictable veteran. His kicks, in particular, are extremely dangerous—and insanely fast. In the Paulus fight, he threw a kick every 11 seconds, the highest frequency in OKTAGON’s bantamweight division.And now he stands before the biggest opportunity of his career: defeating the current #2 bantamweight in OKTAGON and a fighter ranked in the TOP 60 of the world’s bantams on Fightmatrix. A win like that? That’s a ticket straight to the elite. And Silva knows it very well.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1291"></oktfightcomponent><h2>FORECAST: A STORM THAT WILL SHAKE THE O₂ ARENA</h2>At first glance, a clash of styles. At second glance—clash of mentalities. Magard relies on pressure, control, and elite grappling. He’s relentless, mentally unbreakable, and physically ready to die in the cage. Silva is quiet death. Calm, focused, with knockout power that can destroy a game plan in a single second.What happens when their worlds collide?<ul><li>If Magard drags Silva into his world—wrestling, clinch, ground-and-pound—we're in for a brutal war.</li><li>If Silva keeps the fight standing, he can end it with a single kick or punch.</li></ul>But one thing is certain: The winner will move directly into position as the next bantamweight title challenger in OKTAGON.BE THERE! The year 2025 will end with a monumental night of world-class MMA. OKTAGON 81 brings two title fights, returns of stars, heated rivalries—and among them this explosive matchup: Magard vs. Silva. Will the O₂ Arena stand behind Magard? Or will the crowd fall in love with the Brazilian karate assassin who wants to silence the skeptics and steal the spotlight? Tickets for OKTAGON 81 are on sale now. December 28th. Prague. O₂ Arena. History will be written right in front of you.<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

A long-awaited clash of two completely different worlds. Danish firebrand Jonas “Shark” Magard will step into Prague’s O₂ Arena on December 28th to face Brazilian finisher Elvis “Karate Kid” Silva.

THE DANISH SHARK IS BACK AND SMELLS BLOOD! MAGARD VS. SILVA SET FOR AN ELITE SHOWDOWN

David Dvořák will fight for the OKTAGON flyweight title in Prague. This means Czechia could regain a champion for the first time in over a year. The last Czech champion was Patrik Kincl, who lost his belt in October last year at OKTAGON 62. Now, Dvořák will challenge the current king of the division, Zhalgas Zhumagulov.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/eaa1fc13-64a7-4724-9c05-b850be16f5f8/cs.1765213514853.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/e0f15c30-2554-4df0-b507-0e59f232f519/cs.1765213501883.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>“THE UNDERTAKER”: CZECHIA’S HOPE FOR THE TITLE</h2>David Dvořák is undoubtedly one of the most successful Czech MMA fighters. “Undertaker” first appeared in OKTAGON in 2019 at OKTAGON 13. With a win over Arsen Taigibov, he confirmed his talent, and with a stunning streak of 13 victories in a row, he left for the UFC, where he spent the next four years.During his time in the UFC, he earned three consecutive wins, extending his streak to an unbelievable 16 victories! This put him among the world’s elite and moved him to #12 in the global rankings. But then came three losses, and his UFC chapter came to an end.This September, after six long years, he returned to OKTAGON—and in spectacular fashion. His fight with the dangerous Walid didn’t start well for him. Walid pushed hard from the start and landed good shots. But then it came—a powerful overhand from Dvořák that sent Walid crashing to the canvas. With a first-round KO, he made a clear statement: he wants a title shot. Now he’ll get it against champion Zhalgas Zhumagulov.<oktinstagramcomponent url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DPytbZxDAxt/?img_index=1"></oktinstagramcomponent><h2>ZHUMAGULOV: THE KAZAKH THREAT</h2>Current OKTAGON flyweight champion Zhalgas Zhumagulov will be one of the toughest challenges of Dvořák’s career. The Kazakh fighter, nicknamed “Zhako” holds a professional record of 18–9. Like David, he also fought in the UFC, where he had seven appearances, including an appearance at UFC 264: Poirier vs. McGregor 3. His journey in the UFC was complicated by several controversial decisions that even outraged fans. Before joining the UFC, he was a three-time champion in the Russian promotion Fight Nights Global.He made his OKTAGON debut last autumn, beating experienced veteran Aaron Aby in Bratislava. That win pushed him to the top of the division, and a title fight was inevitable. It happened at OKTAGON 73 in Hamburg, where Zhalgas convincingly defeated champion Beno Adamia—who was riding a six-fight winning streak—and became the new king of the division. Now he faces his first title defense against the hungry “Undertaker.”<h2>A WORLD-CLASS MATCHUP</h2>Both Zhumagulov and Dvořák belong among the absolute elite of their division. Both are ranked inside the world’s TOP 40 flyweights. According to FightMatrix, Zhumagulov is currently #33 in the world, while Dvořák holds the #39 position. They are also among the six highest-ranked fighters in OKTAGON—and this bout will decide which of them stands at the very top.This is Dvořák’s first title fight in ten years, and the big question is how he will handle the championship rounds—if the fight reaches the fourth and fifth rounds. On the other hand, Dvořák has an extremely high finishing rate for flyweight, both standing and on the ground. Out of his 22 professional victories, he went to a judges’ decision only five times. He has nine KO/TKO wins and eight submissions.Zhumagulov, however, wins half of his fights by decision. He has seven KO/TKO victories and just two submissions. “Zhako” prefers striking battles. He's fast, technically sharp, and has excellent takedown defense. In his title win over Adamia, he controlled every round and gradually dismantled the champion. But Dvořák is known as a master strategist who can adapt mid-fight and always finds the smartest path to victory.Will Czechia regain a champion after a year, or will Zhumagulov defend his throne?We will find out on December 28, 2025, in Prague’s O2 Arena. The stacked OKTAGON 81 card promises action from start to finish. Two title fights, a decade-long rematch between Kincl and Pukač, the grand finale of Celebrity Series, and the heated showdown between Raška and Tóth. The arena is filling up fast, and tickets are running out. Secure your seat for the final event of 2025—or gift the experience to someone special. Tickets available at the link below.<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

David Dvořák will fight for the OKTAGON flyweight title in Prague. This means Czechia could regain a champion for the first time in over a year. The last Czech champion was Patrik Kincl, who lost his belt in October last year at OKTAGON 62. Now, Dvořák will challenge the current king of the division, Zhalgas Zhumagulov.

WILL CZECHIA REGAIN A CHAMPION? DVOŘÁK CHALLENGES ZHUMAGULOV FOR THE FLYWEIGHT TITLE

Fan-favorite Miloš Petrášek is preparing for the final fight of his professional career. OKTAGON 81 will be the symbolic closing chapter to all the moments, highs, and lows that “Meloun” experienced in the organization. Let’s look back at the career of one of the most beloved Czech fighters.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/471211fc-e4f5-4fe4-83ae-33e5bf7b0b66/cs.1764947483949.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/a2dd3480-3cc9-4b74-bdd1-c119a148789f/cs.1764947489380.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>THE PRODIGY AND GREAT HOPE OF CZECH MMA</h2>At the start of Petrášek’s career, many predicted a bright future for him—and when you look at how he began, it’s easy to understand why.An interesting fact: Petrášek never had a single amateur MMA fight. He went straight into the professional ranks. This was partly because he had been training combat sports since the age of 12 and had already earned success in grappling. Transitioning into MMA therefore wasn’t too difficult. He also had the benefit of training alongside his older brother, Ondřej Petrášek, whom fans may remember from early OKTAGON events.His professional debut didn’t go well. But what followed was a streak of seven straight victories—four of them before the final bell, including two Kimuras and two TKOs. At just 23 years old, his career trajectory looked excellent. Then came a rough stretch—two consecutive losses and a one-year break.<h2>THE KIMBALL CHAPTER AND THE ROAD BACK</h2>When Petrášek returned in 2017, he was unstoppable. In just ten months, he collected four wins, all inside the distance. Two of those fights took place in OKTAGON—at OKTAGON 5 and OKTAGON 7. Miloš’s star rose again, fans embraced him, and with popularity came pressure.That’s when he encountered his “kryptonite” and long-time nemesis—American powerhouse Jeremy “The Grizzly” Kimball. Kimball had just finished his UFC run, where he fought four times, and came to Europe to test himself. At first glance, he doesn't even look like a typical top-level athlete—Petrášek jokingly once said that Kimball embodies the saying, “if you’ve got a belly, you’ve got a punch.” And the first fight proved it: Kimball finished it by first-round KO.Unwilling to accept such a crushing defeat, Petrášek insisted on a rematch, determined to prove that he belonged at the top of OKTAGON. But the result didn’t change—this time the fight went to a decision, but Kimball again had his hand raised. After two heavy losses, Petrášek needed a rebound. At the legendary OKTAGON 15 event—the night of the “Fight of the Century” and the promotion’s first sold-out O2 Arena—he faced Danish veteran Christensen. But again, things didn’t go his way, and he suffered another decision loss.<h2>THE PEOPLE’S FIGHTER WHO WILL ALWAYS BE LOVED</h2>Despite all the ups and downs—from thrilling victories to crushing defeats—Miloš Petrášek remained one of the most beloved fighters in OKTAGON. Always smiling, authentic, and open, he became an integral part of the promotion. Whether as a fighter, commentator, fan, or analyst, supporters admired his humanity.Now, Miloš is approaching the final chapter of his career. His last professional fight. The end of a story that may not have broken international barriers, but nonetheless left a powerful legacy. In the O2 Arena, he will say goodbye to his career and to the fans who have stood by him through everything. He helped build Czech MMA, inspired countless young fighters, and earned loyal supporters who will be with him until the end. And it is with them that he hopes to celebrate one last victory—to close his career with a win in front of the home crowd and step into the next stage of life without regrets.Will you be there to support him one last time?OKTAGON 81 is fast approaching! Only three weeks remain, and the seats in the O2 Arena are filling quickly. If you want to experience Petrášek’s farewell, don’t wait—secure your place today. The final event of 2025 takes place on December 28th, and it will be a spectacular ride!<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

Fan-favorite Miloš Petrášek is preparing for the final fight of his professional career. OKTAGON 81 will be the symbolic closing chapter to all the moments, highs, and lows that “Meloun” experienced in the organization. Let’s look back at the career of one of the most beloved Czech fighters.

THE FINAL FIGHT OF MILOŠ PETRÁŠEK: A BELOVED FIGHTER SAYS GOODBYE IN THE O2 ARENA

Daniel Škvor is stepping into the heavyweight division. The current #3 light heavyweight contender will close out 2025 in truly massive fashion. At OKTAGON 81 in Prague’s O2 Arena, he will take on the German powerhouse Patrick Vespaziani. What can we expect from this matchup—and how does Škvor stack up at heavyweight?<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/bb8ab834-7d10-4020-8d99-bf428aeb9ea1/cs.1764783633907.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/ace151f9-a6d7-4c4d-b494-58d79fc1acc1/cs.1764783644781.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>THE BEST FORM OF HIS CAREER AND THREE WINS IN A ROW</h2>Daniel Škvor launched his professional MMA career in 2020, shortly after winning the OKTAGON Underground tournament in the 100 kg division. At the time, he was still a pure kickboxer with experience from major organizations, including the prestigious GLORY promotion. Trying a striking match in small MMA gloves hooked him instantly. Just half a year after winning the Underground final, he made his professional MMA debut.He lost that fight via submission in the second round to Omar Sy—not the debut he hoped for, but a valuable lesson. He needed to improve takedown defense and grappling overall. Under coach André Reinders, he began developing all aspects of his MMA game. His biggest weapon, however, remained the stand-up. With his experience, technique, and physical attributes, Škvor is a dangerous opponent for anyone.After his debut loss, he earned five straight wins and quickly established himself as a new predator in the light heavyweight division. He defeated names such as Lucas Alsina, Marc Doussis, and Pavol Langer. In spring of last year, he lost to Will Fleury via second-round Arm Triangle Choke—and has been chasing a rematch ever since.Now Škvor is riding a streak of three dominant victories. His latest win came at Eden, again against the experienced Argentine Lucas Alsina. As the #3 light heavyweight contender, he was on the verge of a title shot—until Fleury decided to move up and claim a second belt. He succeeded and now defends his heavyweight throne against Slovak star Martin Buday, who returned to OKTAGON from the UFC.<h2>CLASH WITH THE SURGING VESPAZIANI</h2>Škvor will meet surging German gladiator Patrick Vespaziani in the O2 Arena. Just like Škvor, Vespaziani is on a three-fight winning streak and holds the #3 spot—except in the heavyweight division. This will be a collision of two potential title challengers, each coming from a different weight class. For Škvor, this is a partial return to his roots—he competed as a heavyweight throughout his kickboxing career, so size differences won’t feel foreign to him.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1315"></oktfightcomponent>But this time, the fight will follow MMA rules, where weight plays a far bigger role than in striking sports. Once the fight hits the ground, every extra kilo becomes painfully obvious—whether you're lifting it or it’s crushing you from above. This is likely Vespaziani’s game plan: take Škvor down early and use his size advantage relentlessly.The Czech striker, meanwhile, will try to keep the fight standing as long as possible—using speed, defending takedowns, and landing hard counters off the back foot. Distance management will be absolutely crucial. At the same time, he can’t afford to get clipped—“Il Gladiatore” can end a fight with a single shot.Škvor is facing a major career challenge. A win could position him as a title challenger in two divisions simultaneously. A loss on home soil in the O2 Arena would cast a bitter shadow over an otherwise excellent year.The winner will be decided in less than a month! On December 28, 2025, OKTAGON returns to the O2 Arena for its traditional end-of-year show. Two title fights—Fleury vs. Buday and Zhumagulov vs. Dvořák. The long-awaited rematch between Kincl and Pukač. The grand finale of the Celebrity Series. You can still gift tickets under the Christmas tree. Give an experience they’ll remember for years.<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

Daniel Škvor is stepping into the heavyweight division. The current #3 light heavyweight contender will close out 2025 in truly massive fashion. At OKTAGON 81 in Prague’s O2 Arena, he will take on the German powerhouse Patrick Vespaziani. 

ŠKVOR MOVES UP TO HEAVYWEIGHT – FACES GIANT VESPAZIANI IN THE O2 ARENA

We are less than four weeks away from the final event of the year: OKTAGON 81. Fighter preparations are reaching their peak. It’s the final stretch. One of the most anticipated matchups is the clash between the former champion and one of the most accomplished Czech fighters, Patrik Kincl, and the Slovak veteran who is experiencing a career rebirth. A rematch that fans have been waiting ten long years for. What will decide the winner?<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/f00563c7-4027-4ecb-9305-a5cc884eeda0/cs.1764606433504.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/7bbc7a2b-6194-41a6-8af6-1e85548e0157/cs.1764606440000.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>BACK TO THE PAST: A CLOSE FIRST FIGHT</h2>When Kincl and Pukač first met, the MMA world looked completely different. Conor McGregor was preparing for his first UFC title fight, OKTAGON existed only in the minds of its founders, and Karlos Vémola was demolishing opponents in England. Czech and Slovak MMA was still in its early stages—and at that moment, two promising prospects stood across from each other: 25-year-old Patrik Kincl and the two-years-younger Robo Pukač. Both fighters already had a solid number of professional fights. Kincl held a 13–8 record and had just returned from an unsuccessful run in Russia’s ACB, where he lost to Albert Duraev. Pukač had a slightly better record of 12–4–1 and, after his win over Šindelář, many saw him as the favorite. The fight took place on May 30, 2015 , in Banská Bystrica. Both fighters knew how important the matchup was for their careers, and the fight reflected that—neither opened up with risky combinations, usually throwing only single or double strikes. Pukač relied heavily on low kicks , and after the first round Kincl’s leg was badly bruised. The Czech fighter tried to pressure Pukač against the fence and score takedowns , which he succeeded in doing a few times—possibly the deciding factor in his victory. Otherwise, most of the fight was spent in the center, standing, with neither gaining a major advantage. After 15 minutes, the judges delivered a majority decision in favor of the Czech “Inspector.” Their careers then split. Kincl went on an impressive run, losing only once in his next 10 fights. Pukač struggled, collecting 6 losses and only 4 wins in his next 10 bouts.<div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"><h2>THE STORY OF ROBERT PUKAČ'S REDEMPTION</h2></div>Ten years passed, and while Patrik Kincl became OKTAGON’s middleweight champion and even reached the top of the P4P rankings , Robo Pukač struggled for years to find the form that would bring him back into the spotlight. He finally did it this year. With bold trash talk and a fearless attitude, he called out the struggling David Kozma —and seized the biggest opportunity of his career. He finished the “Pink Panther” in the first round in front of Czech fans in Třinec, scoring the biggest win of his career. But he wasn’t satisfied. After beating one king, he wanted another —this time Germany’s Christian Eckerlin. Many claimed Pukač’s win over Kozma was a fluke or simply a consequence of Kozma’s poor performance. But the “Prince of Bratislava” didn’t care. He knew his win was built on years of hard work and sacrifice. And once again, he proved it. In Hamburg’s Barclays Arena, he demolished the local star Eckerlin via third-round TKO. Each win boosted his appetite —and now he wants one more giant of the Czech scene and a chance to avenge his decade-old loss.<div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><h2>KINCL HAS STUMBLED TWICE – NOW HE MUST WIN</h2>Standing in the way of Pukač’s fairy-tale rise is the Czech “Inspector” Patrik Kincl —one of the most successful Czech MMA athletes of all time. The former OKTAGON middleweight champion reigned over the division for 956 days and defended the title three times, against names like Karlos Vémola, Alex Lohoré, and Piotr Wawrzyniak. Today he sits at #77 in the global FightMatrix rankings —though at the start of 2024, he was ranked as high as #35. But then came two consecutive losses —something that hadn’t happened to Kincl in 15 years. First, he lost in front of a record-setting 59,194 fans at the Frankfurt football stadium, where he was outclassed by Kerim Engizek. He couldn’t threaten the Turkish fighter and allowed him to control the fight. The decision was clear. A similar story unfolded in June at OKTAGON 72 in Prague’s Eden, where he lost the interim title fight against Makhmud Muradov. He couldn’t find success in striking or on the ground. After four years, Kincl now enters a non-title bout —facing someone outside the global top 160 for the first time in ten matches. Still, this may be one of the most important fights of his career. A third consecutive loss would be a major problem and signal danger for his ranking among the hungry contenders below.<div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><h2>CZECHIA vs. SLOVAKIA</h2>A rivalry embedded in the DNA of OKTAGON. From the very first OKTAGON Challenge to the Fight of the Century. Czech–Slovak matchups have shaped the local MMA scene since its beginnings—and they will continue to do so. This fight once again puts two nations head-to-head. On one side stands the Czech “Inspector” Patrik Kincl. On the other, the “Prince of Bratislava” Robo Pukač. Whether you’re Team Kincl or Team Pukač, this fight forces you to pick a side. And in the O2 Arena, one side will celebrate. Will you be there?<div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div><div class="source-inline-chip-container ng-star-inserted"></div>Sunday, December 28th. Prague’s O2 Arena. A grand finale to the OKTAGON year. Two world-class title fights. The long-awaited rematch Kincl vs. Pukač II. The conclusion of the Celebrity Series. And a lineup of electrifying matchups that will lift fans from their seats. That’s OKTAGON 81. And you still have a chance to be part of it. Tickets are disappearing fast—don’t miss your opportunity. Be there and watch the entire event live!<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

We are less than four weeks away from the final event of the year: OKTAGON 81. Fighter preparations are reaching their peak. It’s the final stretch. 

ESCALATING CZECH–SLOVAK RIVALRY: KINCL vs. PUKAČ II IGNITES EMOTIONS

OKTAGON 80 was an epic night full of brutal finishes, fantastic submissions, and surprising outcomes. A few days after the event, we can now look back at everything that went down in Munich. Who climbed the global rankings, and how do the OKTAGON rankings look now? You’ll find all the updates right here.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/ed803622-358a-4187-ad55-53809a065cac/cs.1764171125432.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/03a94528-e3de-4ba6-a9ae-fc13f2d292a1/cs.1764171129687.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>A NEW LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION AND A TURBULENT WELTERWEIGHT DIVISION</h2>The main change, of course, is the crowning of the returning lightweight champion Mateusz Legierski. Along with regaining the belt, he now holds the #7 spot in the P4P rankings and sits at #125 in the global FightMatrix rankings—which is an excellent result in such a stacked lightweight division.Another double shift came for the Slovak star Ronald Paradeiser. In the welterweight rankings, he overtook his teammate and friend Ion Surdu and is now the division’s #1 contender. A fan favorite with a staggering 22 MMA fights in OKTAGON, he also moved to #8 in the promotion’s P4P rankings. The prestigious website Tapology even named Paradeiser the European #1 in the 77 kg division as well as in the European P4P rankings! Will Rony finally get his long-awaited title shot?But the changes in the welterweight division don’t end there. The undefeated German phenomenon Felix Klinkhammer is rising fast—after submitting Máté Kertész, he moved up to #5 and is now within reach of a title eliminator. On the other hand, Kertész dropped out of the top 10 after another loss. The beloved “Kelt,” Christian Jungwirth, also moved up two places and now holds the #8 spot, overtaking his rival Christian Eckerlin, who sits at #10.There were also notable shifts in the lightweight division. Mateusz Legierski is the champion and Ivan Buchinger remains the clear #1 contender. But the biggest jump came from the Turkish powerhouse Gökhan Aksu, who is now ranked #2 and can realistically aim for a title opportunity. Meanwhile, Attila Korkmaz fell one spot and sits at #4. Ozan Aslaner also entered the lightweight top 10 after his victory over the experienced Elpidio.<h2>GLOBAL RANKING SHIFTS: WHO MADE THE BIGGEST JUMPS?</h2>Alongside the OKTAGON rankings, several changes occurred in the global FightMatrix rankings. Here are the most significant movements after the Munich event:<ul><li>The biggest jump came from Ozan Aslaner, who moved from #911 to an incredible #181 in lightweight after defeating Elpidio!</li><li>Mateusz Legierski improved by 40 places, landing at #125 and moving within striking distance of the global lightweight top 100.</li><li>Gökhan Aksu also made a major leap, rising from #221 to #158 in a single evening—highlighting how important his win over Frimpong was.</li><li>Felix Klinkhammer climbed thirty spots and now holds the #135 position in the welterweight division.</li><li>Czech fighter Matouš “Mighty Rooster” Kohout made a massive climb, moving from #558 to #388—a fantastic result.</li></ul><h2>THE FINAL EVENT OF THE YEAR PROMISES A SPECTACULAR ENDING</h2>Just four weeks remain until OKTAGON 81. One of the best cards in OKTAGON history will bring several world-class matchups. Four of the six highest-ranked male fighters in the promotion will compete on the same night—against each other! The title fight between Fleury and Buday has all the ingredients to become one of the biggest European bouts ever. The same can be said for the flyweight title fight, where two UFC veterans—current champion Zhalgas Zhumagulov and Czech contender David Dvořák—will collide.And that’s far from all. Fans will finally see a heated rematch that has been building for ten long years. The rivalry between Patrik Kincl and Robert Pukač will culminate in a true Czech-Slovak derby. Both have been firing shots for months, bringing old wounds back to the surface, but on December 28 the talking ends and the cage will settle it. Kincl, a former champion, desperately needs a win after two defeats, while “The Prince of Bratislava” Pukač is in the best form of his life and knows this is the biggest opportunity of his career.We will also see the first ever Celebrity Series bout between Raška and Tóth—tension is building and the O2 arena is ready.Fan favorite Daniel Škvor steps into heavyweight waters against German gladiator Patrick Vespaziani. Veronika Smolková faces the toughest challenge of her career against UFC veteran Stephanie Egger, and many more exciting fights guarantee a night to remember.So don’t hesitate—get a ticket for yourself or as a Christmas gift for someone close to you. There’s no better present than an unforgettable experience, and OKTAGON 81 will be exactly that!<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

OKTAGON 80 was an epic night full of brutal finishes, fantastic submissions, and surprising outcomes. A few days after the event, we can now look back at everything that went down in Munich. Who climbed the global rankings, and how do the OKTAGON rankings look now?

THE STORM IN THE WELTERWEIGHT DIVISION CONTINUES. HOW DID THE RANKINGS CHANGE AFTER OKTAGON 80?

A storm of finishes and a night of underdogs. That’s the best way to describe Saturday night in Munich’s SAP Garden. OKTAGON 80 delivered a phenomenal show — the atmosphere in the arena said it all. Fans witnessed eight stoppages in eleven fights. So how did the judges score the remaining three bouts?<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/e318b6ed-4556-4db4-b245-699a12217a29/cs.1764082543984.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/474c6ec1-b7b1-42ed-be0f-70c563624609/cs.1764082548719.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>MATEUSZ LEGIERSKI vs. ATTILA KORKMAZ</h2>A new lightweight champion! Mateusz “Dynamite” Legierski delivered a dominant performance and deservedly won on points. Korkmaz had a few bright moments, especially in the third round, but Legierski always responded, regained control and dictated the pace. Whenever scoring on the feet got complicated, he took the fight to the ground and secured it there. With his return to OKTAGON, he sent a clear message to the entire division — he’s back and stronger than ever.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1288" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>CHRISTIAN JUNGWIRTH vs. NIKLAS STOLZE</h2>A Celtic war and an unexpected TKO! Christian “The Kelt” Jungwirth delivered one of the best performances of his career. His endless pressure caused Stolze to fade until, in round four, he was forced into total survival mode. Jungwirth overwhelmed him with combinations, and the referee stopped the fight. An emotional eruption in the arena — Jungwirth’s road to the Eckerlin rematch has officially begun.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1270" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>ALEXANDER POPPECK vs. DAVID HOŠEK</h2>A crazy start, a brutal finish! Hošek dropped Poppeck early with a stunning high kick — he was inches away from causing a huge upset. But the German “Viking” survived, came back into the fight, and controlled the rest of the round on the ground. In round two, he broke Hošek with heavy ground-and-pound. Poppeck wins via TKO.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1290" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>RONALD PARADEISER vs. GERALDO NETO</h2>Technical dominance from Rony Paradeiser! From the very first second, he showcased the difference in skill levels. He maintained distance, landed clean shots, and didn’t allow Neto to impose his game. When the Brazilian tried to tie things up in the clinch, Rony punished him with a sharp elbow followed by ground strikes, forcing a TKO in round two. One of the most controlled performances of the evening.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1284" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>GÖKHAN AKSU vs. DENIS FRIMPONG</h2>A wild shootout and a performance of the night! This heated clash delivered exactly what everyone expected. Frimpong struck first and rocked Aksu, but the Turkish finisher instantly turned the momentum. A clean rear hand and an uppercut put Frimpong in trouble, Aksu swarmed him, and the referee stopped it already in round one. With this statement victory, Gökhan Aksu made his case for a spot in the lightweight TOP 5.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1305" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>MATOUŠ KOHOUT vs. HAFENI NAFUKA</h2>A tactical war until the final second! Nafuka wanted to take Kohout to the ground, while Kohout excelled in the clinch and standing exchanges. After two rounds, the score was 1–1. In the decisive third round, the more active fighter was “Mighty Rooster” Kohout, who earned the closest possible win by split decision. How did you see the fight?<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1324" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>MÁTÉ KERTÉSZ vs. FELIX KLINKHAMMER</h2>The submission master strikes again! Felix Klinkhammer proved why he’s considered a phenomenon from London Shootfighters. He took the fight to the ground quickly, looked for the back, then changed the plan and caught a knee bar. Kertész tapped immediately. Felix improves to 11–0 and records his eighth career submission.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1281" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>MICHAEL DEIGA-SCHECK vs. TEO SMITH</h2>Emotion, a sudden turn, and a sad career ending. The German crowd pushed Scheck forward, and the beginning of the match looked promising. But then Smith landed a powerful right hand, secured a dominant position on the ground, and forced the tap with elbows. Smith wins by first-round TKO, and Scheck announced his retirement afterward. Thank you for everything, Michael.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1303" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>OZAN ASLANER vs. MARCO ANTONIO ELPIDIO</h2>A Turkish lesson in clean counters! Elpidio tried to close the distance, but Aslaner was waiting for every mistake. His long reach caused the Mexican a lot of problems. After three competitive rounds, Aslaner secured a tight split-decision win.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1322" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>HENRIQUE MADUREIRA vs. ERIGLENT PRIZRENI</h2>A submission the MMA world has likely never seen before! Madureira delivered a complete rarity — a standing reverse triangle choke! One of the strangest submissions in OKTAGON history. Prizreni had no idea how to react. A highlight that quickly spread around the world.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1326" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>EUGEN BLACK-DELL vs. EEMIL KURHELA</h2>A dominant demolition by the German favorite! Black-Dell shook Kurhela several times already in round one. In the second, he landed a clean combination that sent the Finnish talent to the canvas, and he finished the job with strikes. A TKO victory that sent the arena into a frenzy.<oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1266" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent>Munich witnessed a spectacular night full of emotion, finishes, surprises, and historic moments. OKTAGON 80 confirmed the strength of the German scene and crowned a new lightweight king. Now only one step remains — OKTAGON 81 in the O2 Arena, featuring two title fights, the anticipated Kincl vs. Pukač showdown, and the conclusion of the Celebrity Series. The year 2025 will end with a show you definitely don’t want to miss.<okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>