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 OKTAGON premiere in Hannover delivered a full MMA spectacle – thrilling duels, upsets, and spectacular finishes. In the main event, Gjoni Palokaj defeated young “Batfal” on points. David Dvořák scored a KO in the first round, and Todev confirmed his spot as heavyweight #1. Here are all the results from OKTAGON 75.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/8b770fdd-b7a4-454e-bff1-a3cb280f45c1/cs.1757799881416.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/3bf7d2fd-25f8-4cec-b364-789422b913b7/cs.1757799887903.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>GJONI PALOKAJ vs. JAKUB BATFALSKÝ</h2>A beautiful war between two warriors. The main event gave fans an all-round MMA fight – hard striking exchanges, submission attempts, and relentless forward pressure. Gjoni Palokaj proved once again that his endless cardio, elite wrestling, and sharp boxing are a tough puzzle for any opponent. Batfalský showed a fighter’s heart, attacking until the very last second, but it wasn’t enough. Palokaj swept all three rounds and moved closer to a featherweight title shot.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1222"></oktfightcomponent><h2>LAZAR TODEV vs. LUIS BARBOSA</h2>The expected heavyweight war delivered a tense battle. Todev worked hard to keep the fight standing, which he managed well. He maintained distance, avoided brawls, and picked his shots. Barbosa was cautious too, defending well against Todev’s attacks. But the “Bulgarian Tank” was sharper on the feet and earned a deserved decision win. He remains heavyweight #1 and will now be watching closely the Fleury vs. Buday title picture.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1244"></oktfightcomponent><h2>MOHAMMED WALID vs. DAVID DVOŘÁK</h2>A comeback to remember! David Dvořák left no doubt about who’s the biggest beast at flyweight with a stunning first-round KO. Walid had a decent start, but one clean shot crushed his title hopes, at least for now. The Czech “Undertaker” couldn’t have had a better German return – a highlight KO that cements his case for a title shot. Fans can now look forward to a clash with feared Zhalgas Zhumagulov.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1251"></oktfightcomponent><h2>EDGAR JIMENEZ vs. KHALID TAHA</h2>Taha lifted the entire Zag Arena to its feet. After losing the first round to Jimenez’s better control, Taha showed why he’s dangerous. A perfectly timed right hook crashed into Jimenez’s chin, sending him to the canvas. A couple of follow-up shots sealed Taha’s second OKTAGON win. This victory will push him up the rankings and brings back the prospect of a showdown with Holzer – will we see Germany’s fan favorites collide?<oktfightcomponent fightid="1182"></oktfightcomponent><h2>MATEUSZ STRZELCZYK vs. EMILIO QUISSUA</h2>Still unbeaten! Emilio Quissua shined in his OKTAGON debut. He survived Strzelczyk’s heel hook attempt early, then unleashed punishing ground-and-pound until the referee stopped it before the end of round one. Quissua extended his record to 8–0 and made it clear the light heavyweight division has a new predator.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1256"></oktfightcomponent><h2>MAGO MACHAEV vs. WANDERLEY JUNIOR</h2>Mago Machaev once again proved why he’s among Europe’s featherweight elite. Few expected such a dominant win over Wanderley Junior. The Brazilian held on in round one, but Machaev kept raising the tempo. By round two, the 25-year-old Austrian had full control. Junior’s body gave in under heavy ground strikes, forcing the stoppage. Machaev claimed a TKO victory and loudly declared his case for a title shot.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1236"></oktfightcomponent><h2>HUGO VACH vs. MORITZ MERTEN</h2>A tense clash of young German talents ended by doctor stoppage. Merten started strong, but Vach gradually took over. At the end of round two, Vach landed a heavy shot that injured Merten’s eye. Although he finished the round, the doctor halted the fight during the break. Vach secured his first OKTAGON victory in front of the home crowd.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1272"></oktfightcomponent><h2>EMIR-CAN AL vs. LUKÁŠ ELIÁŠ</h2>Tensions ran high between the two even at weigh-ins and the press conference. Both entered hungry for victory, delivering chaos from the start. Al nearly finished it early, but Eliáš showed incredible toughness and even rocked Al late in round one. In round two, exhaustion set in, but Eliáš timed a takedown, took Al’s back, and ended it with a rear-naked choke. Who’s next for the surging Slovak?<oktfightcomponent fightid="1224"></oktfightcomponent><h2>NIKOLAOS SERBEZIS vs. HENRIQUE MADUREIRA</h2>A first-round KO and another setback for Serbezis. Henrique timed a perfect overhand that sent his opponent to sleep. A great win for the Fighting Nerds representative. Thanks to the quick finish, we may see Madureira back in action soon.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1264"></oktfightcomponent><h2>FINN GRIESSMANN vs. JIXIE MOLAPO</h2>A fascinating clash of two young pros. Both played it safe early, waiting for openings. The fight was decided in the third round, where Molapo used his reach and crisp jab to edge out the hometown fighter. He earned his second professional victory. Who would you like to see him face next?<oktfightcomponent fightid="1271"></oktfightcomponent>Next week, OKTAGON 76 brings us back to Frankfurt’s Festhalle, the German home of OKTAGON. Frederic Vosgröne, Daniel Weichel, and Alina Dalaslan headline another stacked card on September 20th at 18:00. Grab your PPV now at a discounted price and watch German MMA shake the scene once again!<okteventcomponent eventid="112"></okteventcomponent>

The OKTAGON premiere in Hannover delivered a full MMA spectacle – thrilling duels, upsets, and spectacular finishes. In the main event, Gjoni Palokaj defeated young “Batfal” on points. 

OKTAGON 75 RESULTS: DVOŘÁK DELIVERS KO, PALOKAJ RULES THE MAIN EVENT

The premiere of OKTAGON in Hannover takes place tomorrow, September 13th at 18:00. Despite several last-minute changes, fans can look forward to a stacked fight card featuring both German and Czech stars. The official weigh-ins went smoothly, with no slip-ups, meaning nothing stands in the way of an explosive night in Hannover’s Zag Arena.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/c951e9b3-cfb2-49ea-b139-e079d0f95f41/cs.1757760576374.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/57bd5984-39d0-49ba-ad94-0d5d0ef3f928/cs.1757760581314.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>GJONI PALOKAJ vs. JAKUB BATFALSKÝ</h2>The surging Batfalský against nearly three years unbeaten Palokaj – the main event promises fireworks. Local hero Palokaj rides a six-fight winning streak, has two titles from German promotions, and has never been stopped by KO/TKO. He is also the only man to defeat Islam Dulatov. Across from him stands Czech super talent Jakub Batfalský. At just 22 years old, he becomes the second-youngest fighter in OKTAGON history to headline a card. With five straight wins and even a runner-up finish in the 2025 Czech “Man of the Year” contest, Batfalský shines both inside and outside the cage. But in Hannover, it’s about more than image – it’s about proving he belongs among the featherweight elite and moving closer to a title shot.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1222"></oktfightcomponent><h2>LAZAR TODEV vs. LUIS BARBOSA</h2>A heavyweight clash that almost certainly won’t go the distance. Bulgarian “Punisher” Lazar Todev is known for relentless pressure – eight of his eleven wins came by KO. Earlier this year, he already tasted a grueling five-round title fight, and his hunger for the belt burns on. Standing in his way is Luis Barbosa, UFC and KSW veteran who has faced legends like Francis Ngannou and Phil de Fries. The Brazilian submission specialist has forced nine opponents to tap and comes into Hannover riding a four-fight win streak. Todev wants to destroy him on the feet, while Barbosa plans to drag him to the ground. Which style will prevail?<oktfightcomponent fightid="1244"></oktfightcomponent><h2>MOHAMMED WALID vs. DAVID DVOŘÁK</h2>The return of David “Undertaker” Dvořák! After a UFC run, the Czech flyweight comes back to OKTAGON with a clear mission – win the title. With a 21–6 record and sixteen finishes, he is one of Europe’s most well-rounded flyweights. His opponent is Mohammed “No Mercy” Walid, who defeated Aaron Aby in his Dortmund debut and proved he’s a serious contender. Walid has finished seven of his eight wins and believes beating Dvořák will launch him into a title shot. Will we witness the biggest victory of Walid’s career, or a triumphant comeback for the Czech strategist?<oktfightcomponent fightid="1251"></oktfightcomponent><h2>EDGAR JIMENEZ vs. KHALID TAHA</h2>Latin American champion versus seasoned UFC and Rizin veteran. Edgar Jimenez owns a Mexican promotion’s title and boasts 15 wins with ten finishes, thriving especially on the ground. Khalid Taha, however, is notorious for his knockout power – 13 of his 15 wins came inside the distance, many in the very first round, including one in just 25 seconds. A clash of two finishers promises fireworks. The question is: who will take the next step toward the belt?<oktfightcomponent fightid="1182"></oktfightcomponent><h2>MATEUSZ STRZELCZYK vs. EMILIO QUISSUA</h2>The Polish “Spider” against Germany’s undefeated champion. Mateusz Strzelczyk is known for taking fights on short notice and still shocking favorites – he has stopped Čepo, Montagnac, and Duczmal. A grappler who can also surprise in striking, he faces Emilio “Rixa” Quissua, making his OKTAGON debut at 6–0 with a UAE Warriors title and training at Planet Eater alongside Krzysztof Jotko. The dangerous striker wants to prove he’s the future of the light heavyweight division. Can he handle the pressure of his debut against the experienced Strzelczyk?<oktfightcomponent fightid="1256"></oktfightcomponent><h2>MAGO MACHAEV vs. WANDERLEY JUNIOR</h2>The Austrian beast against the Brazilian machine. Mago Machaev, currently featherweight #2, has already showcased his quality in the Tipsport Gamechanger and on Frankfurt’s sold-out football stadium stage. His 15–2 record speaks volumes – he’s a predator of the European scene. But Wanderley “Mexicano” Junior is a showman who can shock anyone. Last time, he needed just 19 seconds to knock out Dohnal. In Hannover, it’s about whether Machaev stays on track for the title or Junior steals the spotlight.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1236"></oktfightcomponent><h2>HUGO VACH vs. MORITZ MERTEN</h2>“The German Tarzan” against a ruthless striker. At just 25 years old, Hannover’s Hugo Vach is 5–1 with three finishes and will want to shine in front of his hometown crowd. His opponent, Moritz Merten, is known for his aggressive style and hunt for finishes. A local showdown guaranteed to erupt with crowd energy.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1272"></oktfightcomponent><h2>EMIR CAN-AL vs. LUKÁŠ ELIÁŠ</h2>A clash of two young, hungry fighters. Emir Can-Al is a German talent unafraid to take risks and push forward. Slovakia’s Lukáš Eliáš, on the other hand, relies on systematic pressure and outstanding conditioning. A fight that could be decided by a single mistake.<oktfightcomponent fightid="1224"></oktfightcomponent><h2>NIKOLAOS SERBEZIS vs. HENRIQUE MADUREIRA</h2>Two finish-hungry fighters collide. Nikolaos Serbezis has a reputation as a heavy hitter who overwhelms opponents with explosive strikes. Henrique “Mad Max” Madureira from Italy has ended six of his seven wins inside the distance and has already tested himself against names like Ryšavý. How will this German-Italian battle play out?<oktfightcomponent fightid="1264"></oktfightcomponent><h2>FINN GRIESSMANN vs. JIXIE MOLAPO</h2>Local hope against Czech talent. Finn Griessmann will look to capitalize on the home crowd’s support. Meanwhile, Jixie Molapo from Prague’s Hanuman Gym, with an amateur record of 7–2, gets a second chance at the professional level after a tough debut. Will this be his redemption story, or will Griessmann rise as the next German hometown hero?<oktfightcomponent fightid="1271"></oktfightcomponent>The Hannover premiere promises an extremely exciting spectacle. OKTAGON 75 will deliver a mix of German heroes, Czech talents, and world-class veterans. Whether you’re excited about David Dvořák’s comeback, high-profile debuts, or the Batfalský vs. Palokaj showdow​​n, grab your PPV and don’t miss this night of MMA action!<okteventcomponent eventid="114"></okteventcomponent>

The premiere of OKTAGON in Hannover takes place tomorrow, September 13th at 18:00. Despite several last-minute changes, fans can look forward to a stacked fight card featuring both German and Czech stars. 

WHAT TO EXPECT IN HANNOVER? FULL OVERVIEW OF OKTAGON 75 FIGHTS

OKTAGON 75 heads to Hannover, Germany, for the very first time, and fans have plenty to look forward to! This Saturday, September 13, the sold-out Zag Arena will host its premiere, bringing clashes of undefeated talents, the return of David Dvořák, and debuts of seasoned UFC veterans. The fight card is absolutely stacked and promises fans a night full of emotions and unforgettable moments.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/9f58831b-34ec-48df-80b9-728f9aea940c/cs.1757619241850.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/d7860c46-5551-468f-8234-3d485a83de2b/cs.1757619247009.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>SURGING BATFALSKÝ CHALLENGES THREE-YEAR UNDEFEATED PALOKAJ</h2>The main event promises a real storm. Local hero Gjoni Palokaj hasn’t lost in 1,065 days and is riding a six-fight winning streak, four of those victories under OKTAGON. He also holds two German promotion titles. He is the only fighter to have defeated Islam Dulatov and has never been finished by KO/TKO. Facing him will be Czech super talent Jakub Batfalský, who is on a five-fight winning streak and proving he belongs among Europe’s new elite. At just 23 years old, he will become the second youngest fighter in OKTAGON history to ever headline a card. Jakub is also successful outside the cage – he finished second in the Man of the Year 2025 competition, winning the hearts of MMA fans and beyond. But now he must prove he belongs among the featherweight elite.<h2>NEW FACES IN OKTAGON: CHAMPIONS, SEASONED VETERANS, AND YOUNG PROSPECTS</h2>The Hannover premiere will also bring five new names into the cage – and none of them are MMA rookies!Brazilian veteran Luis Barbosa enters the heavyweight division. He has faced legends like Francis Ngannou and Phil De Fries, even fighting the latter for the KSW title. Barbosa owns 16 wins, including 9 submissions, and is currently riding a four-fight win streak. That means a massive test for OKTAGON heavyweight #1 Lazar Todev.Another debutant is undefeated German promotion champion Emilio Quissua (6–0). A hard striker nicknamed “Rixa,” he wants to prove he belongs among the new light heavyweight stars. His opponent: dangerous Polish “Spider” Mateusz Strzelczyk.From the local scene, fans will see 25-year-old “German Tarzan” Hugo Vach, who will face another debutant, Afghan-rooted Abdullah Sultan. Vach already has 5 professional wins, 3 of them finishes, and will look to shine at home in Hannover.The last debutant is Jixie Molapo from Prague’s Hanuman Gym. The young prospect with a 7–2 amateur record is getting a second chance among professionals and will be hungry to prove he belongs in OKTAGON.<h2>CAREER-DEFINING CHALLENGES: WHO WILL FACE THE TOUGHEST OPPONENTS OF THEIR CAREERS?</h2>Not only Batfalský, but others will face the biggest tests of their careers.German fighter of Kurdish descent Mohammed Walid takes on returning UFC veteran David Dvořák. Walid impressed in his OKTAGON debut when he defeated Aaron Aby, and now he senses a chance to become a flyweight title challenger. But in front of him stands the experienced Dvořák, who wants to prove that after his UFC run, he still has what it takes to rule the division.Similarly, Emilio Quissua will face a big test – not only the pressure of fighting in front of a home crowd, but also the tricky grappling of Mateusz Strzelczyk. OKTAGON 75 will deliver fights that will reveal who is ready to take their career to the next level.<h2>CLASH OF VETERANS: THESE FIGHTERS ARE FAR FROM DONE</h2>The Hannover card also offers a big dose of experience.Luis Barbosa, Khalid Taha, and David Dvořák have all fought in the UFC, each with long careers and the hunger to prove they still belong at the top. Barbosa boasts duels with some of the biggest names in heavyweight MMA, Taha once ranked #79 in the world bantamweight rankings and also fought in Rizin, while Dvořák went nearly 10 years unbeaten with a 16-fight win streak before heading overseas. Now he returns to OKTAGON with one clear goal – to capture the title.Edgar Jimenez, 36, fought four title fights in his last five bouts, becoming a champion in a Mexican promotion and becoming the first fighter from Costa Rica to appear in OKTAGON. Brazilian Wanderley Junior, a multi-organization champion, meanwhile delivered one of the fastest knockouts in history – ending his opponent in just 19 seconds.Together, these fighters promise fans in Hannover will not be bored for a second.That’s why fans should not miss the chance to watch this entire gala live. Take advantage of the special PPV bundle for OKTAGON 75 and 76 and enjoy two action-packed weekends in a row – with the return of David Dvořák, the Batfalský vs. Palokaj clash, and the Frankfurt show headlined by home star Vosgröne. Secure your access now – and be there when European MMA history is written!<okteventcomponent eventid="114"></okteventcomponent>

OKTAGON 75 heads to Hannover, Germany, for the very first time, and fans have plenty to look forward to! This Saturday, September 13, the sold-out Zag Arena will host its premiere, bringing clashes of undefeated talents, the return of David Dvořák.

OKTAGON 75 IN NUMBERS: DISCOVER THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE HANNOVER CARD AND DON’T MISS A THING

This Saturday at OKTAGON 75 in Hannover, a bout will take place that could reshape the flyweight division. Mohammed Walid (#3 in the rankings, record 8–4) faces returning UFC veteran David “Undertaker” Dvořák (21–6). Both are in their prime years, but they approach the sport in completely different ways: one is a relentless contender determined to conquer the division, the other a composed strategist aiming to reclaim his path to gold.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/3390263b-6605-4dd6-b6e9-045ceb3d61b4/cs.1757518551939.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/10c13906-0499-4c4c-8126-f75645ec07b9/cs.1757518555173.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>MOHAMMED WALID: “NOBODY WILL STOP ME”</h2>Walid brims with confidence: “I’m better than David in every area. I’m sharper and I have more weapons I can use inside the cage. This is the most important fight of my career – this victory will bring me the belt, and I’m willing to give everything for it.”The 30-year-old entered Hannover in great form: in his last fight, he scored an impressive win over Aaron Aby, clearly underlining his title ambitions. “My message to the whole division: I’m here to take over and claim what belongs to me. Nobody will stop me. Together with my fans, we will achieve victory and show Kurdish and German power.”<h2>DAVID DVOŘÁK: “I WANT TO BE THE HERO WHO TAMES THE PACK”</h2>For Dvořák, this fight marks his return to OKTAGON after more than six years – following an intense spell in the UFC where he faced world-class opposition.“It was a beautiful chapter of my career, but now it’s time to move forward. Walid is dangerous, but for me it’s just another step on my journey. I’ll be prepared for everything.”The 33-year-old fighter brings the experience of 27 professional bouts, including 21 victories. But his motivation goes far beyond sporting success:“Among all the bad boys, wolves, and warriors, I want to be the hero who tames the pack. For me, the belt isn’t just about sporting achievement – it’s also about the chance to represent values and inspire young people, entrepreneurs, and society as a whole.”<h2>SHOWDOWN IN HANNOVER</h2> On September 13th, two very different personalities will collide in the cage:<ul><li>Walid, who confirmed his title credentials with a recent victory over Aaron Aby and now wants to prove his unstoppable determination.</li><li>Dvořák, who seeks to crown his comeback with experience, composure, and tactical maturity.</li></ul>Whether it ends with a spectacular finish or a full 15-minute battle – this fight will shape the future of the flyweight division. OKTAGON 75 in Hannover will be the place where determination meets strategy. Don’t miss your chance to watch the entire event. Right now, you can still grab a special PPV bundle for OKTAGON 75 and 76 and make sure you don’t miss a moment!<okteventcomponent eventid="114"></okteventcomponent>

This Saturday at OKTAGON 75 in Hannover, a bout will take place that could reshape the flyweight division. Mohammed Walid faces returning UFC veteran David “Undertaker” Dvořák.

WALID vs. DVOŘÁK: CLASH OF STYLES IN THE FLYWEIGHT DIVISION

The featherweight division is without a ruler after Losene Keita’s departure – and in Hannover, the throne hunt begins. At OKTAGON 75, several hungry wolves will step forward, each sensing their chance to get closer to the title. Will it be experience, ruthless power, or youthful hunger that decides?<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/08f07e74-ed25-47b5-a50f-4d3e4de6a080/cs.1757344919692.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/852a12a1-96cc-4743-b249-d4d23c609ff3/cs.1757344925583.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>BATFALSKÝ VS. PALOKAJ: A HEATED MAIN EVENT</h2>A matchup everyone’s been talking about for weeks. Czech super-prospect Jakub Batfalský (23), riding a five-fight win streak and closing in on the Top 10, faces Germany’s Albanian-rooted warrior Gjoni Palokaj (#8), who’s on a six-fight streak – with four of those wins inside the OKTAGON cage. Sparks are already flying between them, with trash talk heating up across social media. The winner could be just one step away from a title shot. Batfalský holds the edge in reach and dynamism, while Palokaj brings a sharp jab and endless cardio. Who will keep their streak alive?<h2>THE BEAST FROM AUSTRIA VS. THE BRAZILIAN MACHINE</h2>Among the biggest contenders is Mochamed “The Beast” Machaev, currently ranked #2. With a record of 15–2 and experience across major European promotions, the Austrian predator has proven he belongs among the elite. But in Hannover, he meets the dangerous Wanderley “Mexicano” Junior, who shocked fans last time with a lightning KO in just 19 seconds against Dohnal. The Brazilian showman, decorated with multiple titles, steps in with one goal – to carve his path to OKTAGON gold.<h2>JIMENEZ VS. TAHA: SEASONED VETERANS SMELL THEIR CHANCE</h2>Another marquee fight will see Edgar Jimenez (#7) collide with UFC veteran Khalid Taha (#10). Both know that in a division without a champion, one big win could open the door wide to a title shot. Jimenez is a four-time champion in Mexican promotions, while Taha brings UFC experience and will enjoy the boost of a home crowd in Hannover. Another clash that could shuffle the deck at featherweight.<h2>IMPORTANT FIGHT OUTSIDE TOP 10</h2>As if that weren’t enough, the spotlight also falls on Nikolaos Serbezis and Amir Bayat. Neither is ranked in the featherweight Top 15 yet – but that could change quickly. Serbezis, already 1-1 in OKTAGON, has solid experience in German promotions. His opponent, Afghan newcomer Amir Bayat, is a finisher through and through: four first-round stoppages, three by submission. His résumé includes a win over Palokaj back in 2018 – though Palokaj got his revenge five years later.<h2>THE THRONE IS EMPTY. WHO WILL TAKE IT?</h2>In Hannover, four crucial featherweight battles will unfold, each with the power to decide who moves closer to the vacant throne. Keita is gone, but his legacy has sparked one of the most dangerous title hunts in OKTAGON history. Fans can expect fireworks – because when the title’s at stake, no fighter takes a step back.How will the featherweight title race play out? We may already know the first title challengers on September 13th in Hannover. The sold-out Zag Arena will roar for the hometown favorites – and every outsider will have to fight for survival. Don’t miss this action-packed night. Get your 2-for-1 PPV bundle for OKTAGON 75 &amp; 76 now and make sure you don’t miss a moment!<okteventcomponent eventid="114"></okteventcomponent>

The featherweight division is without a ruler after Losene Keita’s departure – and in Hannover, the throne hunt begins. At OKTAGON 75, several hungry wolves will step forward, each sensing their chance to get closer to the title.

THE GAME OF THRONES IN FEATHERWEIGHT: WHO WILL CLAIM THE VACANT BELT?

On September 20th, OKTAGON returns to Frankfurt’s Festhalle and alongside established stars, brings fresh blood into the black-and-yellow cage. And these aren’t just average fighters – Frankfurt will witness seasoned warriors, undefeated prospects, and heavy hitters all hungry to shine on Europe’s biggest stage. Let’s take a closer look at all the debutants of OKTAGON 76.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/790e4ce8-e746-438b-bdcb-aea54ac71644/cs.1757088318067.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/3e0dc6b9-14cc-41f8-b4da-e83fd653277f/cs.1757088324563.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>DANIEL WEICHEL: A GERMAN MMA LEGEND RETURNS HOME</h2>A legend comes back. After two years away, Daniel “Drake” Weichel – former M-1 champion, Bellator star, and German MMA icon – is putting the gloves back on. And it will be a spectacular comeback. For the very first time in his career, he’ll step inside the OKTAGON cage – and he’ll do it at home in Frankfurt! Fans can look forward to the return of a fighter with more than 50 professional bouts, 22 submission wins, and 6 knockouts. One of Europe’s most respected fighters is back and hungry.From the small town of Michelstadt, his path took him through Russia and America all the way to the elite. He spent ten years in Bellator, fighting 18 times against the world’s best. Now, for the first time, he’ll perform in front of a home crowd, determined to prove he’s not done yet. Weichel will face the extremely dangerous striker Tounkara – and Frankfurt will be on its feet.<h2>PAVEL BIERNAT: THE POLISH GIANT ENTERS OKTAGON</h2>Also arriving in Festhalle is Polish heavyweight Pavel Biernat. With 5 wins on his record – 4 of them finishes in the first round – Biernat doesn’t waste time. He throws bombs from the opening bell, so fans can expect fireworks. Standing across from him will be current #3 heavyweight, the towering 2-meter-tall Patrick Vespaziani, who himself never leaves a fight to the judges.<h2>RAUL LEMBERANSKIJ: YOUNG BLOOD STRAIGHT OUT OF FRANKFURT</h2>Frankfurt will have another hometown representative. 23-year-old Raul Lemberanskij, originally from Azerbaijan, holds a perfect 7–0 record. His style combines judo, sambo, and sharp boxing – as he showed in his last fight, finishing his opponent by TKO in the first round. At MMA Spirit gym, he’s known as a relentless worker who doesn’t just want to survive – he wants to dominate. Fighting in front of a home crowd at Festhalle is the perfect chance to prove he’s the future of the German scene.<h2>GEORG BILOGREVIC: CROATIAN SPECIALIST IN QUICK FINISHES</h2>From Croatia comes a tough brawler, Georg Bilogrević – a man who never shies away from a challenge. With a record of 7–3, he has finished five fights inside the distance, four of them in the very first round. In his last outing, it took him just 27 seconds to score a highlight-reel head kick knockout. Bilogrević is the type of fighter who never hesitates, thrives in wild exchanges, and relies on Balkan toughness. He enters OKTAGON as a hungry warrior eager to make a statement in his debut.<h2>NESARAHMAD NADRI: THE LION WHO HAS NEVER BEEN STOPPED</h2>Still undefeated. That’s the status of German fighter Nesarahmad Nadri, nicknamed “Löwe” – “The Lion.” And the name fits. Four fights, four submission wins. On the ground, he’s relentless, smothering opponents until they break. Born in Kabul but building his career in Germany, Nadri wants to prove that even among Europe’s elite, his perfect record will remain untouched.OKTAGON 76 in Frankfurt will deliver a storm of debuts. Hometown heroes, a Balkan warrior, and a Polish giant – each has something to prove, and each wants to leave a mark. Get your discounted PPV bundle for OKTAGON 75 and 76 now and watch how these new faces perform under the bright lights in Frankfurt!<okteventcomponent eventid="112"></okteventcomponent>

On September 20th, OKTAGON returns to Frankfurt’s Festhalle and alongside established stars, brings fresh blood into the black-and-yellow cage.

NEW FACES IN THE CAGE: WHO WILL MAKE THEIR DEBUT AT OKTAGON 76 IN FRANKFURT?

Frankfurt is about to welcome its hero. Patrick “Il Gladiatore” Vespaziani, ranked #3 in OKTAGON’s heavyweight division, will step back into the cage on September 20th in front of his home crowd. And if there’s one thing he’s known for, it’s not letting his opponents hang around for long. Four professional fights – four wins, all finished inside the distance. Last time out, he did it in unbelievable fashion, demolishing Zeljkovic in just 41 seconds. Can he do the same against the tough Pole, Biernat?<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/9b465de1-1c05-4ceb-8309-f80a3d290340/cs.1756912243115.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/bf24c201-2f2a-4bf9-8b91-903a496ae1ea/cs.1756912247176.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>FROM CHILDREN’S HOME TO PARATROOPER ELITE</h2>Patrick’s story isn’t just about battles inside the cage. Between the ages of 15 and 19, he grew up in a children’s home, where he learned to stand up for himself. Later, he spent eight long years in the army as a paratrooper. From that period, he took away not only discipline and resilience, but also some harsh experiences – like when his parachute failed during his very first jump. He survived every challenge, and that strength still fuels him today. His military years are also symbolized by the striking tattoos across his back.<h2>A LATE START, A RAPID RISE</h2>Patrick came to MMA relatively late – making his pro debut at the age of 30. But what others take years to achieve, Patrick managed in just two, thanks to relentless work at MMA Spirit gym. He also had a background in striking – with 14 Muay Thai bouts under his belt, winning 11. The transition to MMA was a challenge, but his results show it was the right move. And at nearly two meters tall, with a chiseled physique, he looks like a true giant even by heavyweight standards.<h2>FRANKFURT SHOWDOWN AND THE ROAD TO GOLD</h2>“Il Gladiatore” currently holds the #3 spot in OKTAGON’s heavyweight rankings. One more win could catapult him into title contention. With champion Will Fleury preparing for a clash against returning Martin Buday, Patrick has only one thing in mind – to dismantle Biernat in ruthless fashion and prove to everyone that there’s a new contender in the heavyweight division who won’t be denied.On September 20th, Frankfurt’s Festhalle will shake to its core. Fans will witness not only the return of hometown legend Daniel Weichel and the star Frederic Vosgröne, but also Patrick Vespaziani, who will be determined to show in front of his people that he belongs at the very top of the heavyweight division. Grab your discounted PPV bundle for OKTAGON 75 and 76 now and don’t miss two action-packed nights full of emotions!<okteventcomponent eventid="112"></okteventcomponent>

Frankfurt is about to welcome its hero. Patrick “Il Gladiatore” Vespaziani, ranked #3 in OKTAGON’s heavyweight division, will step back into the cage on September 20th in front of his home crowd. 

PATRICK VESPAZIANI: THE GERMAN PARATROOPER WHO BECAME A HEAVYWEIGHT NIGHTMARE

OKTAGON 75 will deliver a fight card stacked from start to finish. Making his debut will be undefeated German promotion champion Emilio Quissua, alongside former Polish national judo team member Dawid Jarowienko. Fans can also look forward to a clash between Germany’s “Tarzan” Hugo Vach and another Irish prospect, Jack Maguire.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/22fb8b7c-0811-4521-92be-ce113420ad8a/cs.1756730327998.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/f83c1f23-5245-4792-be57-a9ea7af973d8/cs.1756730333040.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>UNDEFEATED CHAMPION VS. THE POLISH SPIDER</h2>Emilio “Rixa” Quissua arrives in OKTAGON with one goal – to conquer the light heavyweight division. In his six professional fights, he has yet to be beaten. Three of those wins came by TKO, and his striking has earned him both fans’ admiration and opponents’ respect. He became UAE Warriors champion in just his fourth pro fight, defeating Kevin Oumar in the first round via ground and pound. Quissua trains alongside names such as Krzysztof Jotko, Alina Dalaslan, and Arijan Topallaj at the renowned Planet Eater gym, and has also spent time at the famous American Top Team.His opponent will be short-notice specialist Mateusz Strzelczyk, known as the “Polish Spider.” While his strength lies in grappling, fans have seen him stand and trade in fierce striking exchanges as well. Whatever strategy he brings, Emilio faces a tough test for his OKTAGON debut.<h2>IRISH TALENT CHALLENGES THE GERMAN TARZAN</h2>In the free prelims, local fighter and new OKTAGON signing Hugo “The German Tarzan” Vach will make his debut. The 25-year-old Hannover prospect enters with a 5–1 record, finishing three fights before the limit. He’s a dynamic, all-around fighter who always gives 100%. Standing across from him will be Irishman Jack Maguire, another of the promotion’s brightest young hopes. Maguire made his OKTAGON debut by submitting fan-favorite Radek Roušal in the second round, leaving a big impression on Czech fans. Now he faces Vach on German soil. Can Jack handle the pressure of the home crowd and claim another big scalp, or will the German “Tarzan” celebrate a winning debut?<h2>WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE: STRIKING ACE VS. ELITE JUDOKA</h2>This is a matchup we’ve never seen before. On one side, a decorated striker who made it all the way to GLORY, and on the other, a judoka who spent nine years on the Polish national team.Arian “GAME OVER” Sadiković is considered one of the country’s best strikers. With a kickboxing record of 38–5, he’s had just one MMA bout so far – but he ended it in just over a minute of the first round. Training out of Fightschool Hannover, he’s now looking to carve his path in MMA, and OKTAGON is the perfect stage.Facing him is the “Polish Tank” Dawid Jarowienko. A nine-year member of Poland’s national judo team, Jarowienko switched to MMA in 2019. After building his skills as an amateur, he turned pro and has earned two stoppage wins in the last year – both in the second round. With fighting in his blood, he always comes to put on a show. Can he impose his grappling on an elite striker?The Zag Arena will witness an unforgettable night on September 13th, as Hannover hosts its first ever OKTAGON event. OKTAGON 75 promises world-class fights: the return of David Dvořák, German legend Khalid Taha, Batfalský vs. Palokaj, and many more exciting matchups. Right now you can grab a special two-event PPV bundle at a discounted price. Don’t miss your chance – be part of it!<okteventcomponent eventid="114"></okteventcomponent>

OKTAGON 75 will deliver a fight card stacked from start to finish. Making his debut will be undefeated German promotion champion Emilio Quissua, alongside former Polish national judo team member Dawid Jarowienko.

STACKED PRELIMS IN HANNOVER: UNDEFEATED GERMAN CHAMPION, IRISH PROSPECT & POLISH JUDO SPECIALIST

After more than four years, Czech fighter David “Undertaker” Dvořák will once again step into the OKTAGON cage. Back in 2019, he made his debut under the yellow-and-black lights before moving to the UFC, where he tested himself against the very best in the world. Now he’s back – and his comeback couldn’t be bigger. On September 13th at OKTAGON 75 in Hannover, he faces dangerous flyweight contender Mohammed Walid, currently ranked #3 in the division.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/2fcf80bc-7452-4e8c-9a1e-43c7107a16cb/cs.1756459790671.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/526e131d-2811-4b10-bf32-e5eb558edf0e/cs.1756459795490.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent>We sat down with David to talk about his return to OKTAGON, his journey as an athlete, and what fans can expect from his comeback fight.David, after more than four years, you’re returning to OKTAGON. How do you feel about stepping back into the yellow-and-black cage?My feelings are very positive. I’m really looking forward to coming back home. In the last six years I’ve traveled half the world, whether for fights or even for vacations. To be honest, I was starting to get a little tired of all that traveling, so I’m happy I’ll be back home and able to perform in front of Czech fans again.Your comeback announcement sparked a lot of media attention. How have you felt the reactions so far?I’ve been getting a lot of positive feedback. Many fans have shown me support and were excited that I’m coming back to Czechia and OKTAGON. I’m really grateful, because I know Czech fans will push me hard at the shows here. Some are even traveling with me to Germany now, and I believe they’ll support me there as well.Your only fight in OKTAGON so far was back in 2019 – also at Štvanice, the same place your comeback was announced. Do you remember the atmosphere and what that fight meant to you?That was a big fight for me. At the time I was dealing with issues at my previous promotion and I was excited to join a big organization. Even then, OKTAGON was already huge – not as big as today, but the atmosphere at Štvanice was amazing. It’s my favorite stadium of all, whether as a fighter or spectator. Being announced there again felt very symbolic for me. I really believe I’ll step into the cage there again next year.You gained valuable experience in the UFC, facing some tough opponents. What did you take away the most from your time there?It was an enormous experience, and I’m thankful for every moment – good or bad. I had very tough fights and tough negotiations about contracts and matchups. Some of my opponents are now ranked in the UFC’s Top 5 or Top 7, and one even fought for the title. It was a beautiful chapter of my sporting life that I’ll always remember fondly, but now it’s time to move forward.On September 13th, you’ll face dangerous Mohammed Walid, currently ranked #3. What do you see as his biggest threats?I’m really looking forward to it. Walid is a well-rounded fighter – he can finish on the ground, and he’s dangerous on the feet. But I’m not overthinking it; it’s just the next step on my journey. I’ve faced plenty of great fighters, and I’ll prepare for him as if he were the best in the world. I’ll be ready for everything. My only goal is to beat him and keep moving toward the title.<oktinstagramcomponent url="https://www.instagram.com/p/DNJM6gFs9oW/"></oktinstagramcomponent>Your goal is clear – the OKTAGON flyweight title. How much does this motivate you during training?Of course, the title is the main sporting goal, but for me it means much more. It’s a tool that can bring media attention, which I want to use to show people something we don’t see often. I travel the country giving talks, running charity projects, coaching young people and even entrepreneurs. I want to show how an athlete should behave and what values he should represent. Among all the “bad boys,” “wolves,” and “warriors,” I want to be the hero who tames the pack.A win in Hannover would put you very close to a title shot against Zhalgas Zhumagulov. What would be your advantage in that matchup?Zhumagulov is a huge motivation for me. I actually once asked the UFC for that fight, but it never happened. We even fought the same opponent – Manel Kape. He has strong guillotines, but when his game plan doesn’t work, I think he mentally cracks. If you break his rhythm, he makes mistakes. That fight wouldn’t be about power, but about the mind. It would be like chess – and I believe I could get inside his head and break him down piece by piece.How is your preparation for Hannover going, especially while also taking care of a newborn?It’s tougher with a baby, of course. I’m the type who wants to help my wife with everything, not just disappear to a camp. But I love being a dad – it fulfills me – and I can balance it with training. Right now I’m moving around the country a lot: Prague, Brno, Hradec. It’s a bit of a nomadic life until things settle. And I also bring my dog everywhere, who needs a lot of attention too. But nothing is stopping me – I train two to three times a day and give it everything.You have 16 finishes from 21 wins. Should fans expect another finish in Hannover, or more of a tactical fight?It always depends on the first minute. Sometimes you think you’ll start slow and read the opponent, but then it explodes right away. I’m a tactician and can adapt, but I want to dictate this fight from the start. Whether it lasts 15 minutes or one, I don’t care. Of course I’d love to show fans a spectacular finish, but the main thing is to win and put on a great fight.How do you see OKTAGON’s growth since you left for the UFC? Did the organization surprise you?Honestly, I’m not surprised. Ondřej Novotný has always been very driven and knew exactly where he wanted to take it. Just like we athletes set our goals, he did the same – and it worked. OKTAGON is moving in the right direction, and I’m glad we have such a big promotion in our small country. The level keeps rising, and you can see that with the Tipsport Gamechanger bringing in top fighters.What does it mean for you to fight in Germany, in such a big event like OKTAGON 75, in front of thousands of fans seeing you live for the first time?It’ll be an interesting experience. Honestly, I’m used to not having the crowd on my side – I fought a Brazilian in Brazil, an American in the U.S. So it doesn’t bother me. I’ve never fought in Germany before, and I’m excited to show myself to German fans and maybe share my story through OKTAGON. It’s a huge market, and becoming a star there would be a big honor.Fans know you as a humble fighter involved in charity and education. Who was your role model growing up?That’s hard to say. Chess influenced me a lot – I played competitively from age 6 to 17, always around adults. From age 10 I was surrounded by people in their 30s, 40s, 50s, even 60s. Many were intellectuals and very smart, which inspired me. I started reading more, educating myself, and growing as a person. Through that environment I developed the desire to work on charity projects, teach kids and adults, and choose a path that became my life’s purpose. Everyone has goals – some want houses, cars, money. For me, it’s about helping others and contributing to society.Finally – what message do you have for OKTAGON fans who will see you in action again on September 13th in Hannover?I hope you enjoy my fight. I’d love your support, and maybe check out my Instagram where I share a lot of educational content about food, recovery, MMA techniques, and more. I believe this next fight will move me closer to the title, so let’s enjoy this journey together. Thank you so much!David Dvořák is a unique fighter, and we are thrilled to have him back in OKTAGON. On September 13th, he’ll step into the cage for his second fight with the promotion after six years. Don’t miss it – grab your discounted PPV bundle now and catch both OKTAGON 75 &amp; 76!<okteventcomponent eventid="114"></okteventcomponent>

After more than four years, Czech fighter David Dvořák will once again step into the OKTAGON cage. Back in 2019, he made his debut under the yellow-and-black lights before moving to the UFC, where he tested himself against the very best in the world. Now he’s back – and his comeback couldn’t be bigger. 

DAVID DVOŘÁK IS BACK IN OKTAGON: I WANT TO BE THE HERO WHO TAMES THE PACK

Denis Frimpong is sharpening his teeth for his fifth straight scalp. But Peter Gabal has matured as a fighter and believes he has what it takes to stop the loud Irishman. OKTAGON returns on September 20th to its German home – Frankfurt. The event will feature a number of local stars led by the phenomenal Vosgröne. Also on the card, the Irish-Czech clash between Frimpong and Gabal promises a wave of emotions.<oktresponsiveimagecomponent url="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/7d2c1d0e-f645-4262-97df-91099a4d0a44/cs.1756319831072.png" mobileurl="https://assets.oktagonmma.com/COMMON_IMAGE/adf5516d-0a85-4436-9fd2-a5b40d4dbc71/cs.1756319836077.png" croppedcorners="true"></oktresponsiveimagecomponent><h2>FROM LONG JUMP TO OKTAGON: THE JOURNEY OF DENIS FRIMPONG</h2>Denis “The Menace” Frimpong isn’t exactly well-liked in Czechia and Slovakia. His trash talk, confidence, and fighter’s ego don’t sit well with many fans. But Denis got used to that already as a child. Few people know that Denis was born in Austria, then moved with his family to Canada, and five years later to Ireland. Even in Ireland, they didn’t stay long in one place – first in Drogheda, then Cahan, and finally Dublin.As a kid with dark skin in Ireland at the time, Denis was often the target of bullying. But “The Menace” wasn’t one to let things slide, which meant he often got into fights. During his teenage years, his athletic talent shone through when he became the Irish national champion in long jump. He only got into combat sports at 22, when he randomly started training Brazilian jiu-jitsu.A few years later, he transitioned to MMA – his first amateur fight came in 2021, and just two years ago he turned professional. Yet today he fights like a seasoned veteran, waiting for his opponent’s mistake. His notoriety also grew after a video surfaced of a sparring session with UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett, who tried to put him in his place after Denis’ cheeky remarks to teammates.<h2>THE UNSTOPPABLE IRISH STORM</h2>Frimpong loves to talk, but he loves proving it in the cage even more. Some fans can’t stand him, others love him, but one thing is clear – Frimpong entertains. His mix of swagger and skill makes him a serious threat in the lightweight division, which currently has no king.He is riding a four-fight win streak and holds the #10 spot in the rankings. His otherwise perfect OKTAGON run is blemished only by a loss to George Staines in the finals of OKTAGON Challenge: England vs. Ireland.Since then, he has beaten every opponent – and in dominant fashion. Most recently, at OKTAGON 71 in May, he finished Arijan Topallaj with a third-round TKO, marking his first stoppage in the yellow-black cage. Now he faces his next challenge in Czech warrior Peter Gabal.<h2>THE FIGHTER REBIRTH OF PETER GABAL</h2>Peter Gabal is a gritty Czech fighter who was never really considered a big prospect or a huge talent. But that has begun to change. Recently, he has spoken about feeling an inner transformation – becoming a different fighter than before. His professional record stands at 7–3, with four wins in his last five bouts.In his last fight against Elias Jakobi, he showed tremendous heart. After eating a perfectly placed axe kick in round one that dropped him – with the referee close to stopping it – Peter survived. By round two, it was as if he had risen from the dead. He pushed forward, exchanged heavy blows, and eventually overwhelmed Jakobi with a TKO finish. At the post-fight press conference, he admitted he didn’t even remember the first round, but from the break between rounds onward, he was back in the fight.Training under coach André Reinders, Peter is improving with each fight. He’s said he wants to beat a big name in OKTAGON and then call out Ivan Buchinger – and now he has the perfect opportunity. Love him or hate him, Frimpong is a big name in the lightweight division. His scalp would be the biggest win of Gabal’s career.Will Peter build on his recent success and find the key to stop the Irish showman? Or will Frimpong celebrate another victory over a Czech fighter?Find out on September 20th in Frankfurt’s Festhalle! The event will also feature the return of Vosgröne, German legend Daniel Weichel, Vespaziani, Nafuka, and many more. Get your PPV bundle for OKTAGON 75 &amp; 76 now and don’t miss a thing!<okteventcomponent eventid="112"></okteventcomponent>