<p>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.</p><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><p></p><p><strong>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?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>How do you approach a fight of this magnitude mentally? Does the size of the event or the crowd’s reaction affect your focus?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>What kind of reaction are you expecting from Czech fans?</strong> </p><p>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. </p><p><strong>Karlos has a reputation for trying to get inside his opponents’ heads. How do you handle his psychological tactics?</strong></p><p>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.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1076"></oktfightcomponent><p><strong>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?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Do you ever avoid over-analyzing your opponent to stay adaptable during the fight?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Looking back to the very beginning, what first attracted you to MMA? What made you decide to commit to it as a career?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Did you fight even as a kid?</strong> </p><p>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.</p><p><strong>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?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>How did it turn out?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Your background includes rugby. Do you think the skills or mentality you developed in rugby helped you transition into MMA?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Do you feel rugby gave you any mental edge when it comes to handling pressure and competition in MMA?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>What have been the toughest moments of your career so far, and how have they shaped you as a fighter and a person?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>What lessons did you learn from your first professional loss, and how did it impact your approach?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>How do you mentally recover from a tough loss, and what keeps you motivated to improve and move forward?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>What goes through your mind in the final moments before walking out to the cage? Are you nervous, calm, or something else entirely?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>How do you mentally prepare for the intensity of the walkout and the fight itself?</strong> </p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Do you have any role models, either in sports or outside of it, who inspire you in your approach to life and fighting?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>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?</strong></p><p>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.</p><p><strong>Finally, if someone who’s never seen you fight asks, "Why should I watch Will Fleury in the cage?"—what would you say?</strong></p><p>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.</p><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! 

<p>The Winning Group Arena in Brno witnessed a night fans will remember for a long time. OKTAGON 79 delivered thrilling fights, raw emotion, and shocking moments. Here’s how the judges saw the action:</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/3807ff17-9890-41d7-aa17-8a182fcc4a71/cs.1762264819040.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/73cb8907-134b-4865-a036-0ea3ce492113/cs.1762264823609.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><p></p><h2>ION SURDU vs. ANDREJ KALAŠNIK</h2><p>The Moldovan “Dracula” Ion Surdu once again proved his power. From the opening bell, he dictated the pace, took Andrej Kalašnik down, and punished him with hard elbows. When “Vagabund” got back to his feet, Surdu landed a clean shot that sent him crashing down, forcing the referee to step in. The welterweight division remains without a champion — the question is, who will claim the vacant belt next?</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1220" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>VLADIMÍR LENGÁL vs. OGNJEN DIMIĆ</h2><p>Vlado Lengál showed once again what destruction looks like in practice. He nearly finished Dimić in the first round and sealed the deal in the second with a ruthless knockout. The Brno crowd erupted in celebration as the Czech finisher added another TKO to his record.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1221" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>TOMÁŠ MUDROCH vs. JAKUB DOHNAL</h2><p>The “Ostrava Express” can’t be stopped! Tomáš Mudroch landed a clean right hand early that sent local veteran Jakub Dohnal to the ground. A few follow-up punches later, the referee had no choice but to step in. A quick finish and another big win for Mudroch.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1248" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>RADEK ROUŠAL vs. COREY FRY</h2><p>The showman of the night delivered once again! Radek Roušal put on a wild display, dropping Corey Fry four times with heavy punches. The Brit couldn’t continue, and the Czech striker celebrated a KO victory along with a Tipsport Performance of the Night bonus.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1255" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>DANIEL LIGOCKI vs. PEDRO OLIVEIRA</h2><p>Brazil’s Pedro Oliveira shocked Brno. He controlled all three rounds against Daniel Ligocki with a composed and disciplined performance, earning a clear decision victory. It’s the first OKTAGON loss for Ligocki, while Oliveira made a statement as a dangerous new middleweight contender.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1306" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>SAMUEL BARK vs. MATE SANIKIDZE</h2><p>The 1,000th fight in OKTAGON history delivered fireworks! Both Samuel Bark and Mate Sanikidze went to war in a thrilling contest that ended in round three. Bark took the Georgian’s back and finished him with a rear-naked choke.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1298" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>LUKÁŠ CHOTĚNOVSKÝ vs. NATHAN HAYWOOD</h2><p>Young Brit Nathan Haywood produced one of the night’s biggest highlights. After a competitive start, he landed a front head kick flush on Chotěnovský’s chin, sending him crashing to the canvas. A few follow-up shots later, it was over — a spectacular finish for the English prospect.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1307" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>VÁCLAV ŠTĚPÁN vs. KAROL KUTYŁA</h2><p>A tough battle between youth and experience. Czech newcomer Václav Štěpán survived the early pressure from the seasoned Karol Kutyła and in the second round locked up a kimura that forced the Polish veteran to tap. A fantastic debut performance!</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1262" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>LIAM PITTS vs. STEPHAN GUIDEA</h2><p>Quick and dominant! Sweden’s Liam Pitts needed less than two minutes to submit Stephan Guidea. After a clean takedown, Pitts smoothly advanced to the back and finished with a rear-naked choke.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1308" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>VÁCLAV KLIMŠA vs. JESSY JOAQUIM</h2><p>Firefighter Václav Klimša showcased his signature Von Flue choke once again. Jessy Joaquim tried to resist, but the Czech’s pressure was too much. Klimša even released the choke himself after realizing his opponent was unresponsive — a brilliant show of both skill and sportsmanship in his OKTAGON debut.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1309" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>ŠIMON BRUKNAR vs. HARUN KURT</h2><p>A competitive clash between two hungry young fighters. Šimon Bruknar landed fast combinations, but Harun Kurt was sharper and controlled the pace more effectively. After three rounds, all judges unanimously awarded the win to the German.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1282" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><p></p><p><strong>Brno witnessed a truly special night full of emotion — from Roušal’s explosive performance to Lengál’s demolition and the bittersweet ending for local hero “Vagabund” Kalašnik. OKTAGON 79 proved once again that Czech MMA is stronger than ever. </strong></p><p><strong>Next stop: OKTAGON 80 in Munich’s SAP Garden, featuring stacked matchups and a main event between fan-favorite Christian Jungwirth and dangerous striker Stolze. This is one you don’t want to miss!</strong></p><okteventcomponent eventid="115"></okteventcomponent>

The Winning Group Arena in Brno witnessed a night fans will remember for a long time. OKTAGON 79 delivered thrilling fights, raw emotion, and shocking moments. Here’s how the judges saw the action:

OKTAGON 79 SCORECARDS: SURDU TRIUMPHS, LENGÁL SHINES & ROUŠAL RULES BRNO!

<p>The Brno event OKTAGON 79 delivered a night to remember for Czech MMA fans. Brutal finishes, close wars, and emotional moments – this card had everything we hoped for and more. Here’s how each fight played out:</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/89ee2add-dac1-4f61-b8f5-61747b5c15b8/cs.1762102984392.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/9b7d0564-ddc2-48a5-ad4d-22c43735f4cd/cs.1762102990510.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>ION SURDU vs. ANDREJ KALAŠNIK</h2><p>The Czech dream of a welterweight title ended once again. Andrej Kalašnik couldn’t overcome former champion Ion Surdu. The Moldovan “Dracula” dominated from the start, taking the Czech fighter to the ground and landing heavy elbows. Kalašnik managed to get back on his feet but walked into more damage, and after a hard punch dropped him, the referee stepped in to stop the fight. The welterweight division is now without a champion – who will claim the throne next?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1220"></oktfightcomponent><h2>VLADIMÍR LENGÁL vs. OGNJEN DIMIĆ</h2><p>Vlado Lengál once again proved why he’s one of the most dangerous men in the lightweight division. He stopped Ognjen Dimić in the second round after a dominant performance. Lengál controlled the opening round and came close to finishing it early, but Dimić showed incredible toughness. In round two, Lengál didn’t let the chance slip away and sealed the win via KO.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1221"></oktfightcomponent><h2>TOMÁŠ MUDROCH vs. JAKUB DOHNAL</h2><p>A fight that ended almost as soon as it began. One clean right hand was all Tomáš Mudroch needed to rock Brno’s own Jakub Dohnal. Dohnal tried to defend on the ground, but the “Ostrava Express” didn’t stop. A first-round KO for Mudroch and a clear message – he’s ready for the lightweight top 10.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1248"></oktfightcomponent><h2>RADEK ROUŠAL vs. COREY FRY</h2><p>Radek Roušal brought absolute carnage! After firing up the crowd with his trademark chainsaw walkout, he earned the Tipsport Performance of the Night bonus with a devastating KO win over Corey Fry. Roušal dropped the Englishman multiple times before finishing him for good. A spectacular knockout and another unforgettable moment for the Czech striker in front of his home fans.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1255"></oktfightcomponent><h2>DANIEL LIGOCKI vs. PEDRO OLIVEIRA</h2><p>A big surprise for both the crowd and Daniel Ligocki himself. Brazilian newcomer Pedro Oliveira dominated all three rounds and won a clear decision. Ligocki never managed to find his rhythm as Oliveira outclassed him in every area. It’s the first OKTAGON loss for Ligocki, while Oliveira instantly established himself as a serious new threat in the middleweight division.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1306"></oktfightcomponent><h2>SAMUEL BARK vs. MATE SANIKIDZE</h2><p>The 1,000th fight in OKTAGON history! Both men showed heart and skill in a competitive clash that went to the third round. Samuel Bark took Mate Sanikidze’s back and finished him with a rear-naked choke. The Swedish striker moves one step closer to a featherweight title shot and proved once again why he’s one of Europe’s most exciting fighters.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1298"></oktfightcomponent><h2>LUKÁŠ CHOTĚNOVSKÝ vs. NATHAN HAYWOOD</h2><p>A bitter return for Lukáš Chotěnovský, but a spectacular highlight for Nathan Haywood. After a fairly even start, the young Englishman landed a perfectly timed spinning heel kick to the temple, followed by ground strikes to finish the fight. A highlight-reel KO that instantly put Haywood on the map.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1307"></oktfightcomponent><h2>VÁCLAV ŠTĚPÁN vs. KAROL KUTYLA</h2><p>A successful OKTAGON debut for rising Czech prospect Václav Štěpán, though it didn’t come easy. The tough Pole Karol Kutyla applied constant pressure, clinching and landing shots on the cage. But Štěpán caught his opponent’s arm in a kimura, forcing the tap. A huge win for the young fighter and an important first step in his OKTAGON journey.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1262"></oktfightcomponent><h2>LIAM PITTS vs. STEPHAN GUIDEA</h2><p>Swedish prospect Liam Pitts dominated from start to finish, submitting Stephan Guidea in just two minutes of the first round. Pitts quickly took the fight to the ground, improved position, took the back, and sunk in a tight rear-naked choke. Another exciting new face for the bantamweight division.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1308"></oktfightcomponent><h2>VÁCLAV KLIMŠA vs. JESSY JOAQUIM</h2><p>Firefighter Václav Klimša once again showcased his signature move – the Von Flue choke. For the second time, he stunned his opponent with this rare submission, putting Jessy Joaquim to sleep. Klimša also earned respect for his sportsmanship, releasing the choke when he realized his opponent was unresponsive, even before the referee stepped in. An impressive debut for the Czech fighter.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1309"></oktfightcomponent><h2>ŠIMON BRUKNAR vs. HARUN KURT</h2><p>The night didn’t start well for Czech colors. Šimon Bruknar lost a close decision to the undefeated German Harun Kurt. Bruknar relied on fast combinations, but Kurt’s timing, accuracy, and composure proved decisive. A strong showing from both men, but the judges rightfully rewarded the more effective fighter.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1282"></oktfightcomponent><p></p><p><strong>OKTAGON 79 delivered thrilling debuts, spectacular knockouts, and emotional moments — even though the night ended in disappointment for Brno’s “Vagabund,” who fell short in his title bid against Ion Surdu. Fans were treated to nonstop action, and the excitement continues soon at Prague’s O2 Arena.</strong></p><p><strong>OKTAGON 81 will close out the year in style — two title fights, the Celebrity Series, and the long-awaited clash Kincl vs. Pukač.</strong></p><p><strong>This might be the best card in OKTAGON history — don’t miss it and secure your tickets now!</strong></p><okteventcomponent eventid="118"></okteventcomponent>

The Brno event OKTAGON 79 delivered a night to remember for Czech MMA fans. Brutal finishes, close wars, and emotional moments – this card had everything we hoped for and more. Here’s how each fight played out:

BRNO BATTLE: HOW DID THE HOME FIGHTERS PERFORM AT OKTAGON 79?

<p>OKTAGON 79 kicks off tonight! Fans can look forward to a card that perfectly combines big names and emerging stars. In the main event of the evening, everything will be on the line – Czech hero Andrej “Vagabund” Kalašnik will challenge the feared Ion “Dracula” Surdu. Alongside them, we’ll see a former featherweight champion, several Czech prospects, and matchups that promise anything but boredom. Here’s your full fight-by-fight preview.</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/f2fef49b-f67d-4f6d-aee5-5c2c469bd00f/cs.1762001590443.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/a9461e24-765a-43c1-9cb5-b50f100250ef/cs.1762001596285.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>ION SURDU vs. ANDREJ KALAŠNIK</h2><p>The highlight of the night — a fight that could change Czech MMA forever. Brno’s own “Vagabund” Andrej Kalašnik stands before the biggest opportunity of his career. After three straight victories, crowned by a brutal 95-second KO of Kertész, he faces Ion Surdu, the Moldovan “Dracula,” who terrorizes the welterweight division. Out of his 16 career wins, Surdu has finished 13 before the final bell, 11 of them in the first round! Last year, he knocked out both Kozma and Brito, proving the title belongs in his hands. But in Brno, he’ll face a hungry challenger backed by thousands of passionate home fans. Can “Vagabund” bring the belt home to Brno — and to all of Czechia?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1220"></oktfightcomponent><h2>VLADIMÍR LENGÁL vs. OGNJEN DIMIĆ</h2><p>A clash of two explosive strikers! Vlado Lengál is the definition of toughness — all eight of his wins have come by knockout. The home crowd will give him the energy to bounce back in style. But standing opposite him is Serbian powerhouse Ognjen Dimić, who has six finishes in nine wins and is determined to claim a breakthrough victory.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1221"></oktfightcomponent><h2>TOMÁŠ MUDROCH vs. JAKUB DOHNAL</h2><p>A Moravian–Silesian derby! Brno veteran Jakub Dohnal enters the cage in front of his hometown audience. His grappling has earned him six submission victories and plenty of wins across disciplines. Facing him is the “Ostrava Express” Tomáš Mudroch, who has finished all seven of his victories before the time limit — most of them in the very first minute! Two knockouts in OKTAGON confirmed his reputation as a destroyer. Experience versus explosiveness – who will rule Brno?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1248"></oktfightcomponent><h2>RADEK ROUŠAL vs. COREY FRY</h2><p>A tough duel that could end in seconds! Radek Roušal will look to continue his rise in front of the Brno crowd. Two straight TKO victories have made him one of OKTAGON’s most feared strikers. But England’s Corey Fry arrives with a reputation as a finisher — all five of his wins came in the first round, four of them by knockout. After shocking Ilbay in his OKTAGON debut, he now aims to silence another local favorite. Who will fall first?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1255"></oktfightcomponent><h2>DANIEL LIGOCKI vs. PEDRO OLIVEIRA</h2><p>Brno’s own Daniel Ligocki is on fire — three fights, three first-round finishes, three demolitions! At Štvanice, he needed just two minutes to win, confirming his status as one of the Czech scene’s brightest young prospects. This time, he faces Brazilian champion Pedro Oliveira, who holds nine victories, including four by KO and two by submission. Last year, Oliveira claimed a title in his home country and has never been finished — a streak Ligocki will try to break in front of his home fans!</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1306"></oktfightcomponent><h2>SAMUEL BARK vs. MATE SANIKIDZE</h2><p>The 1,000th fight in OKTAGON history! Swedish striker Samuel Bark, a former Muay Thai and UAE Warriors champion, rides a four-fight winning streak. He already holds a win over Vlado Lengál in OKTAGON, and his striking power intimidates anyone across from him. His opponent, Mate Sanikidze, the former OKTAGON featherweight king, returns to his natural weight class after a short stint at bantamweight. The Georgian fighter has 11 victories, including wins over Moon and Tichota, and now aims to reclaim his lost throne. The winner will move one step closer to another title shot.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1298"></oktfightcomponent><h2>LUKÁŠ CHOTĚNOVSKÝ vs. NATHAN HAYWOOD</h2><p>A battle of two hungry predators! Lukáš Chotěnovský, a world championship bronze medalist and training partner of Patrik Kincl and David Dvořák, enters the cage with a 7–2 record and four finishes. British fighter Nathan “Little Red” Haywood is a guillotine specialist who has finished every fight he’s won. Both are determined to earn their first OKTAGON victory — who will rise higher?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1307"></oktfightcomponent><h2>VÁCLAV ŠTĚPÁN vs. KAROL KUTYLA</h2><p>A new Czech talent enters the OKTAGON! Václav Štěpán, a former Czech amateur champion with a 14–1 record, is one of the most promising fighters of the new generation. Training alongside Kincl and Dvořák, he’s 3–0 as a professional and ready to show he means business. His opponent, Poland’s Karol Kutyla, a battle-tested striker with experience from several European organizations, will give him a real challenge. Known as “The Thai Butcher,” Kutyla always goes all-in and is hungry for his first OKTAGON win. For young Štěpán, this will be a true baptism by fire.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1262"></oktfightcomponent><h2>LIAM PITTS vs. STEPHAN GUIDEA</h2><p>A Swedish comet against a German finisher! Liam Pitts, a wrestling champion training out of the legendary All Stars Gym alongside Felipe Lima, already has two finishes and huge potential. His opponent, Stephan Guidea from Phoenix Sports Academy, recently won by arm triangle choke in under two minutes and wants to follow the success of his teammate Michael Obodozie. Can he stop the rise of the Nordic talent?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1308"></oktfightcomponent><h2>VÁCLAV KLIMŠA vs. JESSY JOAQUIM</h2><p>A firefighter in action! Václav Klimša, former Czech champion from 2021, faces Belgian prospect Jessy Joaquim, who has finished all his amateur victories inside the distance. Klimša holds a rare win by Von Flue choke and will look to impress his home crowd once again. Will the Czech firefighter extinguish the Belgian flame — or burn under the pressure?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1309"></oktfightcomponent><h2>ŠIMON BRUKNAR vs. HARUN KURT</h2><p>A Czech prospect versus a dangerous German! Šimon Bruknar, a four-time Czech champion and IMMAF world silver medalist, already holds five professional victories, three of them in the first round. Harun Kurt, a black belt in taekwondo, boasts a 4–0 record and has finished three of his opponents before the time limit. A clash of two dangerous styles that could determine the next big European prospect.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1282"></oktfightcomponent><p></p><p><strong>OKTAGON 79 brings a title fight for Brno’s hometown hero Kalašnik, the return of local favorites, and bouts that could shape the future of Czech MMA. Hometown warriors, roaring fans, and a night full of adrenaline — it’s all happening tonight at Winning Group Arena.Watch it all live on OKTAGON.TV — history is being written tonight!</strong></p><okteventcomponent eventid="120"></okteventcomponent>

OKTAGON 79 kicks off tonight! Fans can look forward to a card that perfectly combines big names and emerging stars. In the main event of the evening, everything will be on the line – Czech hero Andrej “Vagabund” Kalašnik will challenge the feared Ion “Dracula” Surdu.

OKTAGON 79 FIGHT-BY-FIGHT: HOMETOWN HEROES AND RISING TALENTS IN BRNO

<p>The Brno event will be exceptional in many ways. Andrej Kalašnik will step into the biggest fight of his career, right in front of his home crowd. Vlado Lengál and Radek Roušal will both appear on the same card, supported by the Brno fans. And the clash between Mat Sanikidze and Samuel Bark will officially go down as the 1,000th fight in OKTAGON history. Here are the records and fun facts from the Brno card!</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/990d7368-7d22-4d6b-b946-375d5c1abb0c/cs.1761846925514.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/8e388361-153d-4113-86b3-80a43dee5d48/cs.1761846933949.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>FIGHT NUMBER 1,000! SANIKIDZE vs. BARK WILL GO DOWN IN OKTAGON HISTORY</h2><p>This fight will be special not only because of the incredible skills of both athletes but also because it marks the <strong>1,000th fight in OKTAGON’s history</strong>. The bout between <strong>Samuel Bark</strong> and <strong>Mate Sanikidze</strong> promises tension from the first second.</p><p>Swedish striker <strong>Samuel “Sammon Decker” Bark</strong> is a former Muay Thai champion who quickly established himself among Europe’s MMA elite. After a string of victories in <strong>Cage Warriors</strong> and winning the <strong>UAE Warriors</strong> <strong>featherweight title</strong> (where he defeated <strong>Ali AlQaisi</strong> over five rounds), Bark now returns to OKTAGON. His style is based on precise Thai boxing, sharp knees, and relentless pressure, which allows him to break opponents both physically and mentally. With a professional record of <strong>12–2</strong>, Bark wants to prove once again that he is one of the most dangerous featherweights in Europe.</p><p>His opponent, <strong>Mate “The NextGen” Sanikidze</strong>, the former OKTAGON featherweight champion, returns to his original division after an unsuccessful experiment at bantamweight. The Georgian prodigy, who made a name for himself by defeating Czech favorite <strong>Jakub Tichota</strong> and remains the only man to beat <strong>Losene Keita</strong>, is now looking to get back on track. Sanikidze currently trains both in his native Georgia and in Las Vegas, alongside his countryman and UFC star <strong>Merab Dvalishvili</strong>. After two defeats, he’s determined to prove that he still belongs among the elite. Known for his movement, explosiveness, and well-rounded skill set that combines wrestling, grappling, and fast striking, this is a crucial fight for both men – Bark can confirm his European star status, while Sanikidze can reignite his path to the top of the featherweight division.</p><h2>A HISTORIC CHANCE FOR BRNO’S “VAGABUND”</h2><p>On Saturday, <strong>Andrej Kalašnik</strong> will step into the biggest fight of his career — on home soil, in front of a sold-out arena, and against the toughest opponent he has ever faced. This is the opportunity he has waited for his entire life. It’s now or never.</p><p>The Brno “Vagabund” was never one of those fighters remembered after their very first match. Instead, he has grown steadily, step by step, until he reached the very top. Within OKTAGON, he has already fought <strong>13 times</strong>. In total, he’s had <strong>18 professional bouts</strong> and holds a record of <strong>13–5</strong>, currently ranked <strong>#153</strong> in the global FightMatrix standings.</p><p>But Kalašnik’s career also includes some remarkable stats:</p><ul><li><p>He has <strong>never lost by submission</strong> and was the first fighter to make the “immortal” Jungwirth tap.</p></li><li><p>He has earned the <strong>Tipsport Performance Bonus three times</strong>.</p></li><li><p>He has <strong>fought in all four countries</strong> where OKTAGON has hosted events.</p></li><li><p>His fastest finish came last spring, when he demolished <strong>Etebar</strong> in just <strong>43 seconds</strong>.</p></li></ul><p>Now, with a three-fight winning streak, he can turn his momentum into a truly historic moment — not just for himself, but for the entire Czech MMA scene, which eagerly awaits its next champion. Will “Vagabund” complete his rise to the top, or will the Moldovan “Dracula” Ion Surdu prove too strong?</p><h2>POWERFUL DEBUTS: WHO WILL LEAVE A LASTING IMPRESSION?</h2><p>Several exciting prospects from the Czech Republic and abroad will make an appearance in Brno — some of them stepping into the OKTAGON cage for the very first time, ready to make a big impression.</p><p><strong>Václav Štěpán</strong> is considered one of the biggest Czech talents of the new generation. As an amateur, he compiled an impressive 14–1 record, and since turning professional, he remains undefeated. Two of his three victories came by finish, and in his OKTAGON debut, he aims to deliver another dominant performance.</p><p><strong>Šimon Bruknar</strong> joins OKTAGON’s bantamweight division as a fresh addition. At just 25 years old, he has already competed in six professional fights with a 5–1 record. He has finished three of those by KO/TKO, all in the first round! Now he has the chance to shine on Europe’s biggest stage.</p><p>Also stepping into action will be <strong>Václav Klimša</strong>, the tough firefighter from Ostrava. He impressed fans last month with a third-round finish in his professional debut. This time, he faces dangerous Jessy Joaquim, who trains under the guidance of star fighter Losene Keita.</p><p><strong>Lukáš Chotěnovský</strong>, who first appeared in OKTAGON through the OKTAGON Underground project, has since gained experience in international MMA organizations and trained with Czech standouts like Patrik Kincl and David Dvořák. With a solid 7–2 record, he now has the chance to impress Czech fans on home soil.</p><p><strong>Will you be there when OKTAGON history is made in Brno? If you didn’t manage to get a seat at Winning Group Arena, you can still watch all the action live from home! With our PPV, you won’t miss a single moment — enjoy every fight of the Brno card right from your couch. And until Friday midnight, you can grab it at a special discounted price — don’t wait, get your PPV now!</strong></p><okteventcomponent eventid="120"></okteventcomponent>

The Brno event will be exceptional in many ways. Andrej Kalašnik will step into the biggest fight of his career, right in front of his home crowd. Vlado Lengál and Radek Roušal will both appear on the same card, supported by the Brno fans.

OKTAGON 79 FUN FACTS: IN BRNO, OKTAGON WILL CELEBRATE FIGHT NUMBER 1,000!

<p>Brno’s own Andrej “Vagabund” Kalašnik is standing before the biggest challenge of his career. On November 1st, inside Winning Group Arena, he will fight for the OKTAGON welterweight championship belt against the Moldovan king Ion “Dracula” Surdu. The bout, taking place in Kalašnik’s hometown, promises an electrifying atmosphere and ranks among the most anticipated moments of the year. For Andrej, this isn’t just another fight – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to write his name into Czech MMA history.</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/b6c3efe8-93e5-4970-b7b0-8fbf6f595c50/cs.1761589510223.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/35ca0c33-bb65-4b65-b07b-d9d432e7d487/cs.1761589515177.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>ANDREJ KALAŠNIK – THE “VAGABUND” IN TOP FORM</h2><p>When <strong>Andrej Kalašnik</strong> first appeared in OKTAGON back in 2019, few could have predicted that the unassuming fighter from Brno would grow into one of the most distinctive personalities on the Czech MMA scene. Today, “Vagabund” stands as a symbol of originality, humility, and pure joy for the sport.</p><p>He has <strong>18 professional fights</strong>, including <strong>13 under OKTAGON MMA</strong>, and is currently riding a <strong>three-fight winning streak</strong>. In his last appearances, he defeated Etebar, Palaiologos, and former title challenger <strong>Kertész</strong>, whom he destroyed in just 95 seconds. That spectacular performance catapulted him into the title picture and lifted him to <strong>153rd place in the FightMatrix world rankings.</strong></p><p>His fighting style is a treat for fans – creative, constantly active, and full of unpredictable transitions between striking and wrestling. Kalašnik is also one of the most entertaining personalities in the sport. Instead of trash talk and aggression, he uses humor, authenticity, and positivity to connect with people. His nickname and alter ego, “Vagabund,” perfectly capture his free-spirited nature — a fighter who walks his own path. Now, he has the chance to prove that even a “wanderer” can reach the throne.</p><h2>ION SURDU – THE MOLDOVAN “DRACULA,” KING OF THE WELTERWEIGHT KINGDOM</h2><p>On the other side of the cage stands a man who earned respect in OKTAGON through a string of devastating performances. <strong>Ion “Dracula” Surdu</strong> is a phenomenon — his fights have become synonymous with power, precision, and highlight-reel knockouts. The Moldovan champion boasts <strong>16 wins</strong>, with <strong>13 finishes</strong>, <strong>11 of them in the first round</strong> – an incredible record that commands respect across the scene.</p><p>Surdu became OKTAGON’s welterweight champion after dismantling former titleholders <strong>David Kozma</strong> and <strong>Kaik Brito</strong>. He also convincingly defeated experienced contenders like <strong>Lohoré</strong> and Kertész, proving that he is the rightful ruler of the division. Earlier this year, he suffered a loss to elite Polish fighter<strong> Krzysztof Jotko</strong> in the Tipsport Gamechanger tournament, but falling to a top-40 world-ranked opponent only fueled his determination to come back stronger and reaffirm his dominance at welterweight.</p><p>Outside the cage, Surdu is known for his humility and positive energy, which have made him a fan favorite throughout Europe. Although he is Moldovan, he shares a special connection with Czech fans — his fights in <strong>Prague</strong> and <strong>Ostrava</strong> belong to the most intense moments of his career. However, in Brno, he will enter as the villain — facing an arena full of emotions and hometown pressure.</p><h2>A CLASH OF TWO ENERGIES: RESPECT, POWER, AND EMOTION</h2><p>The fight between <strong>Surdu</strong> and<strong> Kalašnik</strong> is not just a battle of two top welterweights — it’s a meeting of two charismatic figures of modern MMA who are changing the way the sport is presented. Both have won fans’ hearts by staying true to themselves — showing respect to each other and the audience, without resorting to trash talk. That’s what makes their rivalry so unique: two likable personalities who respect one another outside the cage, but once the door closes, neither will give an inch.</p><p>Athletically, it’s a showdown of contrasting styles. <strong>Surdu</strong> relies on explosive power, sharp timing, and killer instinct — capable of ending the fight in a heartbeat. <strong>Kalašnik</strong> is a technical strategist whose movement and relentless pace can break opponents down over time. One mistake could decide everything — and inside a roaring arena where every strike echoes, the pressure will be immense.</p><p><strong>On November 1st in Brno, more than just a title will be on the line. It will be about heart, courage, and a dream that Andrej Kalašnik can fulfill in front of his own fans. Will the “Vagabund” make history and become the new OKTAGON champion? Or will the Moldovan “Dracula” prove once again that his reign is far from over? Get your PPV to watch live from home — or visit one of the official OKTAGON Bars and experience the unforgettable atmosphere surrounded by other fans!</strong></p><okteventcomponent eventid="120"></okteventcomponent>

Brno’s own Andrej “Vagabund” Kalašnik is standing before the biggest challenge of his career. On November 1st, inside Winning Group Arena, he will fight for the OKTAGON welterweight championship belt against the Moldovan king Ion “Dracula” Surdu..

THE BIGGEST CHANCE OF KALAŠNIK’S CAREER: THE HOMETOWN HERO AIMS FOR THE TITLE

<p>One of the brightest talents on the Czech MMA scene is ready to take a big step among Europe’s top contenders. Václav Štěpán was already considered one of the most promising prospects during his amateur career, where he built an impressive record of 14–1. Two years ago, he turned professional, remaining undefeated with a 3–0 record. Now, he’s preparing for his OKTAGON debut. What does he expect from his opponent, and how has the transition from amateur to professional been for him? Find out in our interview.</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/7584f99f-4c3a-4681-bed3-7ed4fd69a57e/cs.1761299930605.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/e850c2d3-5a4f-421f-a56e-5786a7575d81/cs.1761299935445.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><p></p><p><strong>Václav, on November 1st you’ll make your OKTAGON debut. How do you feel just a few days before the fight?</strong></p><p>Honestly, I’m really looking forward to it — not just to the fight itself, but to everything that comes with competing in an organization like OKTAGON. Now it’s all about fine-tuning the last details, staying healthy, and getting ready to go.</p><p><strong>You’ve been out of the cage for almost a year. What has changed since then, and how have you evolved as a fighter?</strong></p><p>The break was longer than I would have liked, but everything happens for a reason. Looking back, I can see it made me better in every way — mentally, physically, and technically. I believe fans will see that for themselves next Saturday in Brno.</p><p><strong>Your record speaks for itself – 14 wins as an amateur, 3–0 as a pro. Do you feel this is the right moment to take the next step?</strong></p><p>Exactly. It’s a big step, but there’s no time to waste. I’m young, driven, and already have some experience behind me. Now it’s time to move up a level.</p><p><strong>You’re entering OKTAGON at a time when your division doesn’t have a champion yet. Is that a motivation for you? Is winning the OKTAGON title one of your main goals?</strong></p><p>Right now, I’m fully focused on my opponent and the fight ahead of me, but my path is definitely leading toward the title. My ambitions are high — win next Saturday, and then go step by step until I reach the belt and beyond.</p><p><strong>In Brno, you’ll face a dangerous opponent — Polish striker Karol Kutyla, known as the “Thai Butcher.” What do you expect from him?</strong></p><p>I’m expecting the toughest test of my career so far. He’s a tough, experienced fighter, and that’s exactly the kind of challenge I wanted. If I’m taking a step up, I want it to be against someone strong — someone who pushes me forward. I’m ready for the best version of my opponent, no matter what he brings.</p><p><strong>Without revealing too much of your strategy — what would your ideal fight look like?</strong></p><p>The ideal scenario? A dominant win, finished before the time limit.</p><p><strong>What can fans expect from your debut? What kind of performance do you want to deliver?</strong></p><p>A performance they’ll remember. I want people to hear my name and immediately know who I am.</p><p><strong>In your amateur career, most of your wins came by decision, but as a pro, you’ve finished two of your three fights. Do you prefer professional rules and smaller gloves? How was the transition?</strong></p><p>It completely changed the game. Smaller gloves and the overall move to the pro level were a big step — and I love it. It’s more open, less restrictive, and feels like pure, real fighting.</p><p><strong>Your training home is All Sports Academy, where you train alongside Patrik Kincl and David Dvořák. How much do they influence and inspire you?</strong></p><p>A lot. They’re masters of their craft — the kind of people any fighter would want in their corner. I know I’m lucky to train under their guidance and grow beside them.</p><p><strong>You’re known for your disciplined preparation and focus on details. You also train GOATA at Movement &amp; Therapy — how does that help you, and how did you get into it?</strong></p><p>I’ve always wanted to stand out and stay authentic at the same time. GOATA is one of the pillars that set me apart. It helps me understand movement from a different perspective. I discovered it after dealing with back pain, but over time I realized it’s about much more than healing — it’s about improving how the body functions.</p><p><strong>Aside from MMA, you’re also studying at university. What exactly are you studying, and how do you manage to balance school, training, and all the traveling between Hradec and Prague?</strong></p><p>I study Security Management at Ambis University. Hopefully, I’ll finish my bachelor’s next year, and then we’ll see what comes next. Traveling back and forth can be tough, but once I’m in the gym, I know it’s worth it — the effort always pays off.</p><p><strong>Do you have any role models or people who inspire you — in MMA or in life?</strong></p><p>I try to be my own role model, but I’m inspired by many people from different fields. In MMA, I look up to fighters who have the right mindset, discipline, and approach to both training and life. I also find inspiration in people outside of sports — those who’ve left a legacy and shown how to face life’s challenges.</p><p><strong>If you could choose a dream fight or sparring session with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?</strong></p><p>I don’t have a specific dream opponent, but if I could choose, it would be for the UFC title — that’s the ultimate goal. As for sparring partners, I’d love to train with Sean O’Malley, Israel Adesanya, or Zabit Magomedsharipov. They’re the kind of fighters I could learn a lot from just by sharing the cage with them.</p><p><strong>You don’t have a nickname yet — are you waiting for the right one, or do you not plan to have one at all?</strong></p><p>I actually do — Vinčenzo, at your service.</p><p><strong>How would you like fans to remember you after your debut in Brno?</strong></p><p>I want to stay authentic and true to who I am. I believe that’s what connects most with people. If I can stay myself, maybe I can inspire others too.</p><p><strong>Václav Štěpán is ready for his OKTAGON debut and promises to deliver a performance Brno fans won’t forget.You can still be there to witness it live — only a few tickets remain for Winning Group Arena. On November 1st, Brno will experience a night full of MMA action, homegrown heroes, and new rising prospects. Don’t wait — secure your seat now!</strong></p><okteventcomponent eventid="120"></okteventcomponent>

One of the brightest talents on the Czech MMA scene is ready to take a big step among Europe’s top contenders. Václav Štěpán was already considered one of the most promising prospects during his amateur career, where he built an impressive record of 14–1. Two years ago, he turned professional.

VÁCLAV ŠTĚPÁN AHEAD OF HIS OKTAGON DEBUT: I EXPECT THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE OF MY CAREER SO FAR

<p>OKTAGON 78 in Cologne has forever cemented its place in history. Not only because of what happened inside the cage, but also thanks to a groundbreaking moment — for the first time ever, the two main fights were <strong>broadcast live on Germany’s free-to-air TV channel RTL</strong>, bringing OKTAGON to its largest German audience to date. The Lanxess Arena was packed to the brim, the atmosphere electric, and every fight told its own story.</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/5d88e44a-45b2-44e1-ad95-30553f703aab/cs.1761298915507.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/b20173ee-0a65-4235-8560-7b93004ed694/cs.1761298921803.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><p>Although home fans were shocked by Christian Eckerlin’s defeat, the night delivered countless thrilling moments, brutal finishes, and raw emotions that once again proved OKTAGON has become a true European phenomenon.</p><h2>SUCCESSFUL FREE-TV BROADCAST</h2><p>The Cologne event marked another major milestone for MMA in Germany. Around <strong>800,000 viewers</strong> watched the two main fights live on RTL, while the event gained an additional <strong>800,000 views on RTL+.</strong></p><p>“Honestly, this event wasn’t an easy one. There were many challenges — from opponent changes to logistical issues. That’s why I’m even prouder that, despite all that, we managed to deliver a show that thrilled so many people,” said <strong>Ondřej Novotný</strong>, OKTAGON co-owner and promoter. “Getting MMA onto free TV in Germany was a dream come true — and now we know it’s only the beginning.”</p><p>OKTAGON co-founder<strong> Pavol Neruda </strong>added: “When we first entered the German market three years ago, few believed MMA could grow this much. Today, hundreds of thousands of people are watching on TV and online. Our partnership with RTL is a responsibility — we want to give fans even greater experiences. The year 2026, when OKTAGON celebrates its 10th anniversary, will be a milestone.”</p><h2>THE BIGGEST COMEBACK EVER</h2><p>During the Cologne press conference, OKTAGON made a massive announcement that immediately set the fanbase ablaze. The organization will <strong>return in 2026 to the Deutsche Bank Park football stadium in Frankfurt</strong>, home of Eintracht Frankfurt, for the mega-event <strong>“The Biggest Comeback Ever”</strong> — taking place on September 26, 2026.</p><p>It’s a return to the very place where history was made. In 2024, <strong>OKTAGON 62: Bigger Than Ever</strong> drew nearly <strong>60,000 fans</strong>, setting a world record for MMA event attendance. That moment marked the beginning of a new era — one that pushed MMA in Germany into the mainstream spotlight of media, partners, and audiences alike.</p><p>Now, OKTAGON aims to break that record — and once again prove that European MMA belongs among the world’s elite.</p><h2>OKTAGON FANTASY INTRODUCES NEW FEATURES</h2><p>Alongside the sporting success, OKTAGON’s fan community continues to grow. The OKTAGON Fantasy project now boasts over 15,000 active players! According to the latest statistics, <strong>Germany</strong> accounts for 52<strong>%</strong> of all players, followed by the <strong>Czech Republic</strong> (29%) and <strong>Slovakia</strong> (14%).</p><p>The most popular draft picks from the Cologne event were:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Alina Dalaslan – chosen by 67% of players</strong></p></li><li><p><strong>Tamerlan Dulatov – 59%</strong></p></li></ul><ul><li><p><strong>Christian Eckerlin – 55%</strong></p></li></ul><p>New features have recently been added to the game:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Discord integration </strong>– players can now link their Fantasy account and receive official roles based on their rank.</p></li><li><p><strong>Draft deadline moved to Saturday 4:00 PM</strong>, giving players more time to adjust their lineups right before the event.</p></li><li><p><strong>Neruda Cup connection</strong> – fans can now compete against OKTAGON’s official partners and vote for two fighters to represent the “OKTAGON FANTASY” team.</p></li></ul><p>These updates confirm that <strong>OKTAGON Fantasy</strong> has grown far beyond a simple side project — it has become a phenomenon, allowing fans to experience MMA events from a completely new perspective.</p><p><strong>Next stop: Brno! The welterweight championship fight between reigning champion Ion Surdu and Brno’s own Andrej “Vagabund” Kalašnik is set to headline OKTAGON 79. Expect intense battles featuring top Czech fighters — and you can still be part of it!</strong></p><p><strong>Grab your tickets now and join us on November 1st at Winning Group Arena for an unforgettable night of MMA action!</strong></p><okteventcomponent eventid="120"></okteventcomponent>

OKTAGON 78 in Cologne has forever cemented its place in history. Not only because of what happened inside the cage, but also thanks to a groundbreaking moment — for the first time ever, the two main fights were broadcast live on Germany’s free-to-air TV channel RTL.

LOOKING BACK AT OKTAGON 78 AND THE EXCITING NEWS AHEAD

<p>Cologne’s Lanxess Arena experienced an unforgettable night that went down in history — not only as the first OKTAGON event broadcast on Germany’s free-to-air channel RTL, but also as a show full of emotion, surprises, and spectacular finishes. Here’s how the judges saw OKTAGON 78.</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/d911a1dd-9de0-49a5-b540-b2a88ee31cb7/cs.1761051697222.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/7829bfa7-3713-4548-8a2b-65b8d6246120/cs.1761051703200.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>CHRISTIAN ECKERLIN vs. IVICA TRUŠČEK</h2><p>The main event ended in a shock for all home fans. Croatian veteran Ivica Trušček silenced the entire arena when he finished local favorite Christian Eckerlin in the first round with a brutal ground-and-pound after landing a precise jab and following up with heavy elbows.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1247" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>ALINA DALASLAN vs. KATHARINA LEHNER</h2><p>The first all-German women’s fight in OKTAGON history went to the judges’ scorecards. Alina Dalaslan managed the tactical battle with composure, using her movement and accurate striking to collect points in every round. The judges were unanimous – a decision victory for the “Princess of German MMA,” who extended her winning streak to four.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1276" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>KASIM ARAS vs. SIMON BIYONG</h2><p>A heavyweight war that went the distance. Kasim Aras kept his opponent under pressure, controlling the pace and positions throughout. Biyong landed some hard shots, but it wasn’t enough to sway the scorecards. The judges scored it clearly 3:0 for Aras, who strengthened his position among the division’s elite.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1265" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>CIHAD AKIPA vs. DAVID PIECHACZEK</h2><p>Cihad Akipa lived up to his nickname “The Punisher.” From the opening seconds, he went straight after his opponent and ended the fight in the second round with vicious elbows from the clinch. The referee stepped in at the right moment, giving Akipa his first finish inside the yellow-black OKTAGON cage. Middleweight fans take note – this is a name you’ll be hearing a lot more often.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1285" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>PATRICK VESPAZIANI vs. OLUTOBI KALEJAIYE</h2><p>“Il Gladiatore” was on fire once again! Patrick Vespaziani dominated from the start and dropped Kalejaiye with a precise elbow in the first round. The referee stopped the fight, giving Vespaziani another first-round TKO – his third consecutive win and a clear signal that he’s closing in on a title shot.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1289" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>ARIJAN TOPALLAJ vs. HASSAN KAYANI</h2><p>A rematch full of emotion and tension until the very last second. Kayani nearly finished the fight in the second round, but Topallaj showed incredible toughness and turned the fight around in the third. After three hard-fought rounds, all judges agreed – victory for “The Albanian Eagle,” who finally got his revenge.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1279" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>TAMERLAN DULATOV vs. HENRIQUE MELO</h2><p>Just 52 seconds – that’s all it took for Tamerlan Dulatov to win. After landing a knee in the clinch, he unleashed a flurry of strikes that forced the referee to step in. A quick and dominant performance that confirmed Dulatov as one of the most promising young talents in OKTAGON.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1286" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>MAREK BARTL vs. KENNEDY RAYOMBA</h2><p>A classic highlight-reel fight! Marek Bartl landed a perfect spinning elbow to end the fight in the first round. Up to that point, it had been a close back-and-forth exchange, but at 2:59 Bartl struck cleanly and sent Rayomba crashing to the mat. The Czech fighter earned another spectacular finish and once again called out German star Christian Jungwirth.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1275" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>ALEKSANDAR STEFANOVIC vs. JESUS SAMUEL CHAVARRÍA</h2><p>A fight that ended almost as soon as it began. Chavarría quickly gained a dominant ground position, attacked with shoulders and elbows, and during the exchange, Stefanović injured his shoulder. The referee immediately stopped the fight, giving the young Honduran his seventh straight victory – still undefeated.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1296" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>ALTIN ZENUNI vs. MARCEL MÁŠA</h2><p>A tactical war between two young talents. Máša came close to finishing the fight in the second round after landing a high kick, but Zenuni showed incredible resilience. Thanks to superior grappling and control on the ground, the German-Albanian prospect earned a decision win after three rounds. A great performance from both fighters, who clearly have bright futures in OKTAGON.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1287" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><h2>KIRILL NEGRU vs. MICHAEL OBODOZIE</h2><p>A fiery start to the evening! Michael Obodozie finished the talented Negru just 19 seconds into the first round, securing one of the fastest stoppages of the year. An incredible performance that immediately had the crowd on their feet.</p><oktscorecardfightcomponent fightid="1294" smallerversion="true"></oktscorecardfightcomponent><p></p><p><strong>Cologne witnessed a special night full of emotion – the return of the princess Dalaslan, Trušček’s shocking win, and Bartl’s breathtaking highlight-reel finish. The next stop: OKTAGON 79 on November 1 in Brno, where local hero Andrej “Vagabund” Kalašnik will challenge champion Ion Surdu for the welterweight title. Tickets are selling fast – don’t miss this stacked event full of homegrown stars!</strong></p><okteventcomponent eventid="120"></okteventcomponent>

Cologne’s Lanxess Arena experienced an unforgettable night that went down in history — not only as the first OKTAGON event broadcast on Germany’s free-to-air channel RTL, but also as a show full of emotion, surprises, and spectacular finishes. Here’s how the judges saw OKTAGON 78.

OKTAGON 78 SCORECARDS: TRUŠČEK SHOCKS COLOGNE, BARTL LANDS A SPINNING ELBOW KO!

<p>Cologne’s Lanxess Arena witnessed a historic night at OKTAGON 78, with the two main fights broadcast live on Germany’s free-to-air channel RTL. The entire evening offered an action-packed show, full of spectacular finishes and intense battles that went the distance. Here’s a full recap of the results from the unforgettable OKTAGON 78 event.</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/bc4201e8-5098-479f-a3c1-7ff6ab9d40a7/cs.1760828476007.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/219f4dd0-f08e-4c6c-9fa8-245908c59c44/cs.1760828482050.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>CHRISTIAN ECKERLIN vs. IVICA TRUŠČEK</h2><p>The main event of the evening brought a surprise that few could have expected. Ivica Trušček defeated “The King of Germany” in the first round, completely silencing the Lanxess Arena. Once again, Trušček demonstrated his trademark toughness — first shaking Eckerlin with a sharp jab, then overwhelming him with elbows in brutal ground-and-pound. Referee Marc Goddard saw enough and stopped the fight. Trušček scored a huge victory watched by millions of viewers. Can the beloved Eckerlin return to his former form?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1247"></oktfightcomponent><h2>ALINA DALASLAN vs. KATHARINA LEHNER</h2><p>The fairytale run of the princess of German MMA continues! The first German women’s derby in OKTAGON history was dominated by Alina Dalaslan. She defeated her experienced opponent Katharina Lehner in a close tactical battle by decision, earning her fourth consecutive victory. All her wins have come this year — and it’s already clear that this talented fighter has a bright future ahead.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1276"></oktfightcomponent><h2>KASIM ARAS vs. SIMON BIYONG</h2><p>Kasim Aras came out on top in a balanced heavyweight clash. The current #2 OKTAGON heavyweight proved his quality and, thanks to smart strategy, controlled the fight and won on points. The Italian champion landed several heavy shots of his own, but Aras showed great strength and composure, keeping control and earning a well-deserved victory. Who will he face next?</p><h2>PATRICK VESPAZIANI vs. OLUTOBI KALEJAIYE</h2><p>Patrick Vespaziani looked unstoppable in Cologne! From the start, he dominated — especially on the ground, where he battered his opponent with heavy strikes. Late in the first round, he rocked the Dutch fighter with an elbow, forcing the referee to stop the contest. Patrick “Il Gladiatore” Vespaziani claimed another first-round finish, extending his winning streak to three.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1289"></oktfightcomponent><h2>CIHAD AKIPA vs. DAVID PIECHACZEK</h2><p>An exciting middleweight fight ended in a dominant second-round TKO victory for Cihad Akipa. Once again, elbows proved to be a deadly weapon — Akipa repeatedly punished his opponent with them in the clinch. In the second round, the referee stepped in after another wave of ground-and-pound strikes, awarding the win to Akipa. “The Punisher” once again showed his potential, sending a clear message to the middleweight division.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1285"></oktfightcomponent><h2>ARIJAN TOPALLAJ vs. HASSAN KAYANI</h2><p>A very close fight that went all the way to the judges’ scorecards. Arijan Topallaj started aggressively, but Kayani absorbed the pressure and began to drain his opponent’s energy. Topallaj relied on his jab to maintain distance, while Kayani nearly finished him in the second round after dropping him with a right hook. Topallaj recovered quickly and looked stronger in both stand-up and grappling exchanges in the third round. In a razor-close rematch, “The Albanian Eagle” Arijan Topallaj took the win.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1279"></oktfightcomponent><h2>TAMERLAN DULATOV vs. HENRIQUE MELO</h2><p>Tamerlan Dulatov confirmed his role as the favorite and scored a TKO in just 52 seconds. In the clinch, he landed a perfect knee to Melo’s chin and followed up with strikes until the referee intervened. Another lightning-fast finish for Dulatov, who showed he’s ready for tougher challenges ahead.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1286"></oktfightcomponent><h2>MAREK BARTL vs. KENNEDY RAYOMBA</h2><p>The season of spinning elbows continues! Marek Bartl delivered a spectacular spinning elbow KO over Kennedy Rayomba. Both fighters went toe-to-toe from the opening seconds, but at 2:59 of round one, Bartl executed a picture-perfect technique that sent Rayomba straight to the canvas. The Czech warrior celebrated a highlight-reel victory and expressed interest in facing German star Christian Jungwirth next. Will we see that matchup happen?</p><h2>ALEKSANDAR STEFANOCIV vs. JESUS SAMUEL CHAVARRÍA</h2><p>Another lightning-fast finish! Jesus Samuel Chavarría earned a TKO in the first round, improving his record to an impressive 7–0. Early in the fight, he took Stefanović to the ground and unleashed creative shoulder strikes from top position. During the exchange, Stefanović injured his right shoulder, forcing the referee to stop the fight. Still, the Honduran fighter delivered a dominant performance and announced himself as a new threat in the light heavyweight division.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1296"></oktfightcomponent><h2>ALTIN ZENUNI vs. MARCEL MÁŠA</h2><p>A clash of young talents that went the full fifteen minutes. Marcel Máša came close to a finish in the second round after landing a high kick, but Zenuni survived the storm and controlled most of the fight on the ground. Both fighters displayed great grappling exchanges, but Zenuni’s strategic performance earned him the decision win. The future looks bright for both rising prospects.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1287"></oktfightcomponent><h2>KIRILL NEGRU vs. MICHAEL OBODOZIE</h2><p>Wow! The opening fight of the evening delivered a massive surprise — Michael Obodozie finished Kirill Negru in just 19 seconds! The first amateur bout on an OKTAGON card ended almost instantly, with the crowd leaping to their feet. Could we see Obodozie among the professionals soon?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1294"></oktfightcomponent><p></p><p><strong>In just two weeks, OKTAGON returns to the Czech Republic with OKTAGON 79 in Brno. The event will feature a welterweight title fight between current champion Ion Surdu and Brno’s own “Vagabund” Andrej Kalašnik. Fans can also look forward to local stars, including the inseparable duo Radek Roušal and Vlado Lengál. The final tickets are on sale now – don’t miss your chance to experience it live! November 1st at Winning Group Arena.</strong></p><okteventcomponent eventid="117"></okteventcomponent>

Cologne’s Lanxess Arena witnessed a historic night at OKTAGON 78, with the two main fights broadcast live on Germany’s free-to-air channel RTL. The entire evening offered an action-packed show, full of spectacular finishes and intense battles that went the distance. 

OKTAGON 78 RESULTS: COLOGNE EVENT DELIVERED EXPLOSIVE FINISHES AND THRILLING BATTLES

<p>Lanxess Arena in Cologne will transform tomorrow into the capital of European MMA. OKTAGON 78 brings to Germany an incredibly stacked card full of stars, stories, and moments that could change fighters’ careers. Expect the return of legends, domestic derbies, explosive heavyweight clashes, and a title fight for the bantamweight championship belt. Here’s your fight-by-fight overview – get ready for a night fans will never forget.</p><oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/2454661d-1b6a-4607-9ceb-5e38e5493866/cs.1760784520871.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/53a6a7d9-2bc6-4d7b-b113-ce5901ad5134/cs.1760784525643.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>CHRISTIAN ECKERLIN vs. IVICA TRUŠČEK</h2><p>“The King of Germany” Christian Eckerlin is back in action! A beloved fan favorite and the symbol of German MMA faces one of the biggest legends of the European scene – Croatian veteran Ivica Trušček. With an incredible 83 professional fights and a three-fight winning streak, Trušček is coming to spoil the homecoming. Eckerlin will want to prove his star status in front of his home crowd, but “The Terror” Trušček has only one goal – to silence the Cologne arena.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1247"></oktfightcomponent><h2>ALINA DALASLAN vs. KATHARINA LEHNER</h2><p>The first-ever German women’s derby in OKTAGON history! Alina “Iron Fist” Dalaslan, the rising star of German MMA, faces the experienced Katharina Lehner, who returns to fight on home soil in MMA after eight long years. Dalaslan, with experience in K-1 and amateur MMA, wants to prove that her path leads to the bantamweight title. Lehner, on the other hand, brings vast experience – she has competed in boxing, bare-knuckle fighting, and even in Power Slap. For both women, this could be the fight that defines the next chapter of their careers.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1276"></oktfightcomponent><h2>KASIM ARAS vs. SIMON BIYONG</h2><p>A heavyweight clash that will shake the Lanxess Arena! Kasim Aras, who shocked fans in April with a brutal KO of Poland’s Palasz, returns to perform in front of his home crowd. Unlike most heavyweights, he stands just 171 cm tall – a height typical of welterweights – but makes up for it with unbelievable strength and explosiveness. His opponent, Cameroon-Italian champion Simon Biyong, is known for his fierce striking style. Expect a shootout that could end with a single punch!</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1265"></oktfightcomponent><h2>PATRICK VESPAZIANI vs. OLUTOBI KALEJAIYE</h2><p>A clash of generations in the heavyweight division! Patrick Vespaziani, a former elite paratrooper and current #3 heavyweight in OKTAGON, will face Dutch veteran Olutobi "Mad Dog" Kalejaiye. Kalejaiye has more than a decade of professional MMA experience under his belt, during which he has racked up nine victories, eight of which were by KO/TKO. He is known for his aggressive style, enormous physical strength, and ability to decide a fight with one precise strike. However, he faces the German "Gladiator," who is ten years younger and has won all five of his victories before the limit. This will be a clash of two uncompromising fighters – a fight that will most likely not go to the judges.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1289"></oktfightcomponent><h2>CIHAD AKIPA vs. DAVID PIECHACZEK</h2><p>A tough German showdown promising fireworks. Cihad Akipa, known for his aggression and deadly grappling, challenges David Piechaczek – an adventurer who once traveled across Africa with a tent and now seeks to conquer Europe. Both love wild exchanges, both want to finish their opponent before the limit. One of them will confirm his status as a middleweight threat in Cologne.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1285"></oktfightcomponent><h2>ARIJAN TOPALLAJ vs. HASSAN KAYANI</h2><p>Tension in the air – this is a rematch! Arijan Topallaj and Hassan Kayani fought before, and the fight ended in a draw. This time, both want a clear winner. The “Albanian Eagle” Topallaj and striker Kayani have devastating styles and no plan B – they’ll either win or fall.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1279"></oktfightcomponent><h2>TAMERLAN DULATOV vs. HENRIQUE MELO</h2><p>From a family MMA fans know well. Tamerlan Dulatov continues the legacy of a famous name, determined to show that the Dulatovs remain among Europe’s most dangerous fighters. His opponent, Brazilian grappler Henrique Melo, is a submission specialist. A stylistic clash that will reveal whether the family tradition of victory continues.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1286"></oktfightcomponent><h2>MAREK BARTL vs. KENNEDY RAYOMBA</h2><p>Veteran and showman Marek Bartl is back! One of OKTAGON’s longest-serving fighters, Bartl competes for the seventh time on German soil – having won five of those bouts. This time he faces dangerous local talent Kennedy Rayomba. Bartl will once again aim to prove that toughness and experience can overcome youth and hunger.</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1275"></oktfightcomponent><h2>ALEKSANDAR STEFANOCIV vs. JESUS SAMUEL CHAVARRÍA</h2><p>Stepping into a fight on short notice takes courage – and Aleksandar Stefanović has plenty of it. The Serbian veteran, who made his MMA debut back in 2006, returned after a twelve-year break and brings his fighting spirit back to the cage. In Cologne, he faces an undefeated test in Jesus Samuel Chavarría from Honduras, who holds three KO/TKO wins and last finished his opponent in the first round. Will experience be enough to stop raw youth?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1296"></oktfightcomponent><h2>ALTIN ZENUNI vs. MARCEL MÁŠA</h2><p>A clash of two young talents representing the new generation of OKTAGON. The German-Albanian fighter Altin Zenuni, who balances MMA with his civil engineering studies, faces Czech newcomer Marcel Máša, who grew up in an orphanage and now lives his dream in Europe’s biggest organization. Two stories, one chance – who will earn a breakthrough victory?</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1287"></oktfightcomponent><h2>KIRILL NEGRU vs. MICHAEL OBODOZIE</h2><p>A battle between two debutants who share one goal – to make their mark on the fans. Negru brings sharp technique and crisp combinations, while Obodozie offers raw power and unpredictability. It’s the opening fight of the evening, but it will be anything but a warm-up!</p><oktfightcomponent fightid="1294"></oktfightcomponent><h2>DON’T MISS THE BIGGEST GERMAN SHOW OF THE YEAR</h2><p>OKTAGON 78 promises the return of legends, historic moments, and fights that will shape the future of European MMA. Cologne’s Lanxess Arena will become the epicenter of emotion and energy. Be there live or watch the entire gala through PPV – October 18, 2025, when history will be made.</p><okteventcomponent eventid="117"></okteventcomponent>

Lanxess Arena in Cologne will transform tomorrow into the capital of European MMA. OKTAGON 78 brings to Germany an incredibly stacked card full of stars, stories, and moments that could change fighters’ careers. Expect the return of legends.

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