ONE Fight Night 40: Buntan vs. Hemetsberger II commenced with thrilling mixed martial arts and submission grappling action at Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium on Friday, February 13.
The initial phases of the U.S. primetime event showcased dramatic finishes, exceptional technique, and intense match-ups that set the stage for the evening’s World Title fights.
A Malaysian grappler broke a two-fight losing streak in spectacular style, an IBJJF World Champion outclassed his fellow countryman in a highly-anticipated rematch, and two lightweight MMA fighters with matching 10-1 records faced off in a tough three-round battle.
Here’s a recap of the first three bouts from ONE Fight Night 40.
Gabriel Triumphs Over Akaev in Lightweight Clash
Brazilian fighter Lucas Gabriel showcased his versatile skills by prevailing against Russian competitor Magomed Akaev in a challenging three-round match, securing a unanimous decision victory.
The lightweight bout started cautiously until the referee urged action, prompting Akaev to launch a spinning backfist that knocked Gabriel down and followed with ground-and-pound. However, Gabriel remained composed and attempted a leg lock from his back to fend off the attack.
In the second round, Gabriel took control, executing a takedown and immediately shifting to submission attempts. He nearly secured a calf slicer, testing Akaev’s determination, who managed to survive through sheer will. When that didn’t work, Gabriel moved to Akaev’s back to apply a face crank, though the Russian resisted tapping out.
Andrey Dominates Mendes in Anticipated Rematch
IBJJF World Champion Fabricio “Hokage” Andrey overwhelmed his compatriot Joao “Bisnaga” Mendes with relentless submission attempts to earn a unanimous decision in their eagerly awaited rematch.
Having submitted Mendes in their 2021 matchup, Andrey again dominated this contest, maintaining aggression and applying pressure, searching tirelessly for heel hooks and leg locks. Despite Mendes’ defensive skills, which allowed him to avoid being finished, his overly cautious strategy significantly limited his offensive opportunities.
Andrey’s offensive display contrasted sharply with Mendes’ defense, making the final decision straightforward. Following this win, “Hokage” improved his record to 106-27 and remains undefeated in ONE Championship.
Jihin Ends Fujimoto’s Unbeaten Streak with TKO
Jihin “Shadow Cat” Radzuan made a strong comeback, TKO-ing undefeated newcomer Gabriela Fujimoto in their women’s atomweight MMA match at the 3:36 mark of the third round.
Early on, the 27-year-old from Johor Bahru landed precise punches, stifled a takedown, and delivered knee strikes to Fujimoto’s head. Though the Brazilian, celebrating her 23rd birthday, had her moments, using her BJJ skills for reversals and leg lock attempts, the fight primarily showcased Radzuan’s striking and grappling dominance.
As the fight progressed, both competitors transitioned to grappling exchanges without securing finishes. In the final round, although Fujimoto came out aggressive, Jihin countered with a takedown, gained dominant positioning, and launched a series of strikes that led the referee to stop the fight.
With this victory, Jihin enhanced her professional record to 10-5, handing Fujimoto her first loss and overshadowing the birthday celebrations.
