Welcome to the latest installment of our series highlighting remarkable mixed martial arts fights from around the world that might have escaped notice amidst the busy schedule of global MMA events.
Considering the caliber of finishes seen recently, it seems we might need to revisit any list of MMA`s most explosive talents if this week`s regional and international highlights are any indication.
ONE Championship continues to showcase incredible athletes in their weekly events. A truly standout moment from a recent Friday Fights event in Bangkok was Gingsanglek`s stunning spinning backfist knockout of Alexey Balyko.
Gingsanglek delivered a highlight-reel finish, knocking Alexey Balyko out cold with an incredible spinning backfist just 53 seconds into the fight. Balyko was left completely stiff, saved from potentially being ejected from the ring only by the ropes.
The main event also provided a memorable finish, with Suriyanlek stopping Rambong by unleashing a brutal flurry of strikes, leaving him unconscious against the ropes. Rambong appeared frozen before collapsing, a vivid reminder of the power in Suriyanlek`s hands.
Looking for more devastating KOs? Han Sang-Kwon delivered a potential `Knockout of the Year` candidate at Road FC 73 in Seoul. Han connected with a spinning back elbow against Yeo Je-Woo. The strike landed with such speed and force, leaving Yeo Je-Woo instantly unconscious.
At Ares FC 33 in Nantes, France, heavyweight Zakaria Elhanna secured a knockout victory. Elhanna landed a powerful right hand that sent his opponent, Matusalem dos Santos, flailing to the canvas. This was only Elhanna`s third professional fight, and while still early in his career, his power is undeniable.
Another notable finish involved Amir Fazli taking on former UFC fighter Rostem Akman. Fazli delivered a massive overhand right in the second round, resulting in a vicious knockout. The impact was so significant it sent Akman`s mouthpiece flying.
The action continued at EFC Worldwide in Sandton, South Africa, where heavyweight Terrence Xinti Born impressively stopped Tico Van Den Berg in a slugfest during the first round.
This week also saw some discussion regarding the use of seemingly unnecessary follow-up strikes, particularly hammerfists, in certain finishes.
In contrast, one finish featured ground strikes that appeared entirely necessary and undeniably brutal. Former LFL champion Kasim Aras had a powerful debut at Oktagon 73 in Hamburg, Germany, stopping Adam Pałasz in the first round. Aras`s ground and pound was relentless, portraying a level of dominance that left his opponent in a helpless state.
This victory marks Aras`s return to form after a challenging period, demonstrating his resurgence with consecutive wins, including a recent championship.
