In a historic fight in Bangkok, Senegalese Oumar “Reug Reug” Kane dethrones undefeated champion Anatoly Malykhin to capture the ONE Championship heavyweight belt.
Africa continues to shine in global combat sports. After the victory of Cameroonian Francis Ngannou, who triumphed in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) against Brazilian Renan Ferreira, it is the turn of Senegalese fighter Oumar Kane, alias Reug Reug, to write a new page in history. On November 9, 2024, at the ONE 169 event in Bangkok, Reug Reug won the ONE Championship heavyweight title by defeating Russian champion Anatoly Malykhin. This success marks a new triumph for Africa on the international mixed martial arts (MMA) scene.
In this highly anticipated fight, Reug Reug demonstrated impressive technical mastery, particularly in the wrestling phases. His strategy focused on neutralizing the explosive style of Malykhin, known for his devastating knockouts (KOs). The Senegalese maintained constant pressure throughout the clash, forcing his opponent to defend against his throw attempts and his work on the ground.
Anatoly Malykhin, who until then held three champion belts in different weight categories, concedes his first professional defeat. The Russian, undefeated since his MMA debut, failed to impose his boxing against the elaborate tactics of Reug Reug.
This victory marks the culmination of Reug Reug’s spectacular rise in the ONE Championship organization. “ It’s my time “, exulted the Senegalese fighter just after the verdict.
On his social networks, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye congratulated Reug Reug “ for making history by becoming the first Senegalese world heavyweight champion in MMA ». « Par his courage, his determination and his talent, he honors Senegal and inspires an entire generation. Our nation is proud of this remarkable feat », added the Senegalese head of state.
A former traditional Senegalese wrestler, Kane was able to adapt his skills to the demands of modern MMA, becoming the first Senegalese champion in ONE Championship history.
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