Mark your calendars for Friday, December 6, because Dante Leon , one of the most decorated grapplers on the planet, is making his highly anticipated debut at ONE Fight Night 26 , where he will face Bruno Pucci. But here's the kicker—ONE wasn’t the only organization vying for Leon’s signature. According to Grappling Insider, Leon even had an offer to shine on the stage of UFC Fight Pass Invitational 9 . So, why did Leon choose ONE? The answer lies in the allure of facing the absolute best grapplers in the world . "ONE is the pinnacle of grappling talent, not just in their presentation but in the caliber of athletes they host. Competing here is a no-brainer for anyone serious about cementing their legacy,"  Leon shared. The Dream Showdown: Could Tye Ruotolo Be Next? While Bruno Pucci stands as Leon’s first challenge, fans are already buzzing about a potential blockbuster matchup: Dante Leon vs. Tye Ruotolo III . These two grappling juggernauts have faced off twice before, splitting the results with one win each. A trilogy bout on the global stage of ONE Championship? That’s the kind of showdown that could headline any event and leave the world talking. "A third match with Tye on the ONE stage would be monumental. It’s the kind of challenge that every grappler dreams of,"  Leon hinted. ONE Championship: The Mecca of Submission Grappling For Leon, joining ONE was about more than just prestige—it was about stepping into the ultimate proving ground. "The level of grapplers at ONE is unmatched. If you're looking for the very best, they’re all here. It’s where legends are made,"  Leon said. And make no mistake, Leon has his sights set on ONE Championship gold . Though his trophy case is already overflowing with accolades, Leon believes a ONE Submission Grappling World Title  is the ultimate crown jewel for any grappler’s legacy. "If you're serious about grappling, a ONE World Title isn’t just an achievement—it’s a necessity for your mantelpiece,"  Leon declared.

BRAVE Combat Federation’s Heavyweight division just crowned a new contender, as boxing standout Agron Smakici delivered a jaw-dropping stoppage win at BRAVE CF 90 in Austria. Known in the boxing world for his impressive record of 20 wins (18 by knockout) and only 2 losses, Smakici skyrocketed to fame after cutting Tyson Fury during a sparring session—a feat that still turns heads. But at BRAVE CF 90, Smakici proved he’s not just a sparring legend; he’s a force to be reckoned with in MMA. Facing Poland’s Robert Maruszak, Smakici dominated from the start, landing crushing blows in the first round. Despite Maruszak’s grit, Smakici’s relentless aggression ended the bout in the second round, as a devastating punch caused Maruszak to twist his ankle, forcing a stoppage. With this victory, Smakici boosted his MMA record to 2-1, rebounding strongly from his lone loss via disqualification. Post-fight, the Croatian powerhouse wasted no time calling out newly crowned BRAVE CF Heavyweight Champion Pavel Dailidko, signaling his intent to claim the title. Smakici’s meteoric rise adds intrigue to BRAVE CF’s Heavyweight division, already featuring stars like Miha Frlic, Valdrin Istrefi, and amateur world champion Rasul Magomedov. Now riding a two-fight finishing streak, Smakici’s explosive entry has fans buzzing about a potential showdown with Dailidko. As BRAVE CF gears up for its historic year-end events—BRAVE CF 91 and BRAVE CF 92 in Bahrain—the Heavyweight division is officially on fire.

BRAVE Combat Federation’s monumental return to Bahrain just got supercharged with the announcement of BRAVE CF 92, scheduled for December 15 at the iconic Khalifa Sports City Arena in Isa Town, Bahrain. This event promises to close out a historic year with a bang, headlined by a thrilling Middleweight clash between Arab MMA icon Mohammad Fakhreddine and Algeria’s devastating knockout artist Abdel Rahmane Driai. As if that wasn’t enough, the co-main event reignites the fiery India vs. Pakistan rivalry with a rematch between Srikant Sekhar and Rizwan Ali. Fakhreddine’s Fight for Glory After a brief hiatus, Fakhreddine , a former BRAVE CF two-division champion, is set to make his triumphant return. Riding high off a second-round TKO win on the regional circuit, Fakhreddine is hungry to reclaim his spot at the top of the Middleweight ladder. Standing in his way is the surging Abdel Rahmane Driai , making his BRAVE CF debut with a stellar record of eight finishes in nine career victories. A win for Driai could catapult him into title contention, while Fakhreddine sees this as his shot at redemption and Middleweight supremacy. India vs. Pakistan: The Rivalry Reignited The co-main event will see Srikant Sekhar  looking to settle the score with Rizwan Ali  after their explosive bout at BRAVE CF 85. In their first encounter, Rizwan delivered a stunning third-round knockout that went viral, amassing millions of views online. This rematch isn’t just about pride—it’s about national bragging rights. Rizwan aims to cement his dominance, while Sekhar seeks revenge and a chance to restore Indian pride in this iconic rivalry. A Week of Combat Excellence BRAVE CF 92  will be the centerpiece of the sixth BRAVE International Combat Week , starting December 13 with BRAVE CF 91 . The week-long combat spectacle also includes the IMMAF Youth Asian Championships , showcasing the future of MMA on December 14 and 15. Mark your calendars— BRAVE CF 92  is not just a fight night; it’s a global MMA celebration  you won’t want to miss!

When Kai Asakura steps into the Octagon on December 7, 2024, at UFC 310, it will be more than just another fight. It’s a pivotal moment for Japanese mixed martial arts and a chance to rewrite history. Asakura, the 31-year-old dynamo from Japan, will challenge flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja in the main event at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, carrying with him the hopes and dreams of an entire nation. A Champion in the Making Asakura's journey to this historic fight is nothing short of extraordinary. Starting his professional career in 2012, Asakura quickly proved his mettle by amassing an impressive record and showcasing his exceptional striking skills. His explosive style, marked by 13 knockouts among his 16 stoppage wins, has made him one of the most exciting flyweights to watch. What sets Asakura apart is his ability to adapt and evolve. After a dominant run in Japan’s Rizin Fighting Federation, where he defeated top-tier opponents like Manel Kape and Kyoji Horiguchi, Asakura caught the attention of UFC scouts. His 68-second knockout of Horiguchi in 2019 was a defining moment, propelling him to international stardom and cementing his reputation as a dangerous finisher. Carrying the Weight of History Asakura is set to become only the seventh Japanese fighter to challenge for UFC gold. Despite Japan's rich martial arts history, the nation has yet to see one of its own crowned a UFC champion. This legacy weighs heavily on Asakura, but it also fuels his determination. “Japanese fighters have always been underestimated on the global stage,” Asakura stated. “My goal is to prove that we belong among the world’s best. I want to inspire the next generation of Japanese athletes to dream big and achieve greatness.” Asakura also aims to reignite MMA's popularity in Japan, a nation that has long been a cradle for martial arts but has seen the sport’s local prominence wane in recent years. The Pantoja Challenge Standing in Asakura’s way is Alexandre Pantoja, a seasoned champion known for his resilience and all-around skill set. Pantoja has proven himself time and again, with successful title defenses that demonstrate his ability to adapt under pressure. However, Asakura is unfazed. “Pantoja is good at everything, but he doesn’t excel at one thing. My advantage is clear—I have one-shot knockout power. It only takes one clean hit, and the fight is over,” Asakura said confidently. Asakura’s UFC Debut: Why the Hype Is Real Critics have questioned why Asakura, a UFC debutant, is receiving an immediate title shot. But his résumé speaks volumes. With a 21-4 record and victories over elite competition, Asakura has more than earned his place in the Octagon. “I’ve proven myself on the international stage,” Asakura emphasized. “This isn’t just my debut—it’s the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice.” Asakura's diverse striking arsenal and ability to dictate the pace make him a formidable opponent for anyone in the flyweight division. His confidence and calm demeanor, combined with his knockout power, have fans buzzing about the possibility of a stunning upset. What’s at Stake? A victory for Asakura would be historic, making him the first Japanese fighter to claim UFC gold. But it’s about more than just personal glory. Asakura sees this fight as an opportunity to inspire a generation and restore Japan’s place on the global MMA stage. “I want to create a legacy—not just for myself, but for all the fighters who come after me. If I win, it’s a win for Japan,” he said. UFC 310 promises to be an unmissable event. The prelims begin at 8 PM ET, with the main card kicking off at 10 PM ET, live on Pay-Per-View. Can Kai Asakura deliver the knockout of a lifetime and etch his name in history? Tune in on December 7 to witness the dawn of a new era in MMA.

The October/November 2021 issue of Black Belt Magazine  showed the legendary Bruce Lee ready for his final fight scene from Enter the Dragon , aka the room of mirrors. Bruce at his peak! The Little Dragon made his mark as a confident contrarian of the times, introducing innovation to action cinema and martial arts training. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

Updates to UFC 310: Pantoja vs Asakura. Due to injury, please be aware of these updates: Kennedy Nzechukwu will replace Tallison Teixeira in his heavyweight fight against Lukasz Brzeski, as Teixeira has been withdrawn. The heavyweight fight between Martin Buday and Rizvan Kuniev has been canceled because Buday has been withdrawn. Furthermore, Themba Gorimbo is set to step in for Nick Diaz in a welterweight fight against Vicente Luque. UFC 310: PANTOJA vs ASAKURA is scheduled for Saturday, December 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the heart of the MMA world, few names spark as much intrigue as Shavkat Rakhmonov. The undefeated welterweight fighter has been steadily climbing the ranks of the UFC with an impressive mix of striking power, grappling dominance, and fight IQ. Now, as he prepares to face the charismatic Ian Machado Garry at UFC 310 on December 7, 2024, the stage is set for what could be the fight of the year. This clash between two undefeated welterweight stars is more than a test of skills—it’s a battle of wills and a showcase of what the future of the division holds. The Rise of Shavkat Rakhmonov Born in Shurchi, Kazakhstan, Shavkat Rakhmonov represents a new era of MMA athletes emerging from Central Asia. With a Combat Sambo background and a traditional martial arts upbringing, Rakhmonov developed a versatile and disciplined fighting style that quickly translated into success in professional MMA. His early career saw him dominating regional promotions before catching the attention of the UFC, where his arrival was met with immediate excitement. Rakhmonov’s undefeated record speaks volumes. With 20 wins, all finishes, he has proven himself as a fighter who doesn’t just win—he dominates. His ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling has left many opponents bewildered, unable to find answers to his relentless attacks. Key Milestones in Rakhmonov’s UFC Career Since debuting in the UFC, Rakhmonov has faced increasingly tougher competition, showcasing his readiness for the elite: Debut Dominance : In his UFC debut, Rakhmonov submitted Alex Oliveira in the first round, immediately signaling his arrival as a force in the welterweight division. Neutralizing Neil Magny : In a pivotal fight, Rakhmonov showcased his grappling prowess, submitting Neil Magny in the second round. This victory solidified his position as a serious contender. Striking Clinic Against Vicente Luque : Against a dangerous striker like Luque, Rakhmonov’s diverse striking arsenal was on full display, proving he’s just as lethal on the feet as he is on the ground. Win Over Geoff Neal : In one of his most challenging fights, Rakhmonov demonstrated resilience and adaptability, securing a submission victory in a back-and-forth battle that further cemented his reputation. Rakhmonov’s Fighting Style What sets Rakhmonov apart is his ability to adapt to any situation in the Octagon. His style combines the best of striking and grappling: Unpredictable Striking : From pinpoint jabs to spinning attacks, Rakhmonov’s striking is both technical and unpredictable, keeping opponents guessing. Elite Grappling and Submissions : A Combat Sambo world champion, Rakhmonov excels in clinch work, takedowns, and submissions, making him a threat wherever the fight goes. Composure Under Pressure : One of his standout qualities is his ability to stay calm and collected, even in high-stakes situations, allowing him to execute his game plan without faltering. The Road to UFC 310: Facing Ian Machado Garry UFC 310 pits Rakhmonov against Ian Machado Garry, another undefeated prospect who has made waves with his flashy style and sharp striking. Known for his pinpoint accuracy and footwork, Garry thrives on outclassing opponents in striking exchanges, and his confidence has drawn comparisons to Conor McGregor. However, Garry has yet to face a fighter with the level of versatility and finishing ability that Rakhmonov brings to the table. What’s at Stake? This fight is a critical milestone for both fighters. For Rakhmonov, a victory over Garry not only maintains his unblemished record but also positions him as the next contender for the welterweight title, currently held by Belal Muhammad. For Garry, a win would propel him to superstardom and prove he’s more than just hype. Keys to Victory for Rakhmonov Close the Distance : Garry thrives on keeping opponents at range. Rakhmonov will need to cut off the cage and close the distance to nullify Garry’s striking advantage. Utilize Grappling : While Garry has shown improved takedown defense, he hasn’t faced a grappler of Rakhmonov’s caliber. If Rakhmonov can take the fight to the ground, he’ll have a significant edge. Mix Up Striking and Takedowns : Rakhmonov’s ability to blend striking with takedown attempts will be key to keeping Garry guessing and disrupting his rhythm. The Legacy of Shavkat Rakhmonov Regardless of the outcome at UFC 310, Rakhmonov’s rise is a testament to his dedication, skill, and unyielding will to succeed. He represents a new wave of fighters from Central Asia, blending traditional martial arts with modern MMA techniques. If he continues his ascent, Shavkat Rakhmonov could very well be the future of the welterweight division—and perhaps one day, a UFC champion.

Get ready for a high-stakes Muay Thai clash as Thongpoon PK Saenchai faces off against Danial “Mini-T” Williams in a strawweight thriller at ONE Fight Night 26, airing live on U.S. primetime this December 6. With both fighters bringing relentless action and a thirst for victory, fans are in for an explosive battle. Thongpoon, coming off two consecutive losses, knows this fight could define his future in ONE Championship. "For this fight, I am hungry for victory because if I lose again, it will affect my future in ONE. My back is against the wall right now," Thongpoon confessed. The Thai dynamo has vowed to evolve, promising fans a sharper, smarter version of himself. Despite the pressure, Thongpoon insists he won’t hold back. "I will still use my aggressive style but fight smarter. I’ve learned from my mistakes and am ready to think faster and adapt in the heat of the moment," he stated. His strategy? Force the fast-moving Williams into a corner and unleash his power. On the other side, Williams enters with momentum after breaking a four-fight losing streak by defeating Banma Duoji at ONE Fight Night 25. The Australian striker admires Thongpoon's fearless style and anticipates a fight that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. "I’m a fan of [Thongpoon]. We’re both risk-takers, and it’s gonna be a lot of entertainment," Williams said. But Williams isn’t taking any chances in the firefight. Aware of Thongpoon’s power, “Mini-T” plans to strike first and strike hard. "When he throws, he takes big risks. If it turns into a dogfight, it’s a 50-50—first person to land. I feel like one of us is getting put away," Williams predicted. Both fighters share the belief that the match could end in a spectacular finish, with Williams gunning for an early knockout. "The ideal way would be finishing him in the first round. If I can get it done in the first 10 seconds, that’ll be awesome," he remarked. Don’t miss this electrifying showdown between two of the division’s most exciting athletes. ONE Fight Night 26 streams live and free to all Amazon Prime subscribers in the U.S. and Canada on Friday, December 6, at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST. Buckle up for a Muay Thai battle that promises fireworks!

2024 has been a groundbreaking year for the BRAVE CF Women’s Strawweight division, with electrifying fights and emerging stars redefining the landscape. Among the year's highlights was a Fight of the Year  contender between Monika Kučinič and Fabiola Pidroni, but the real buzz came at BRAVE CF 90 when the division welcomed its newest sensation, Songül Karatorak. Making her professional MMA debut, Songül capitalized on the visionary BRAVE CF–IMMAF amateur pathway. An IMMAF European Champion riding a three-fight winning streak, she showcased her skills with a dominant first-round submission victory over Kinga Jendrasik. This wasn’t just any win—it was a statement. Despite Kinga entering the bout with more professional experience and weighing in one kilogram above the Strawweight limit, Songül left no doubt about her potential. From the opening bell, she overwhelmed her opponent, demonstrating the depth of her amateur MMA experience. BRAVE CF’s investment in IMMAF athletes is clearly paying off, as Songül’s seamless transition to the professional ranks underscores the success of this pathway. Songül’s arrival adds a surge of excitement to a Strawweight division that has yet to crown its inaugural champion. While she’ll need a few more wins to solidify her status as a title contender, her stellar debut has set the stage for a thrilling rise. Could she be the future face of the division? Songül Karatorak’s debut not only turned heads but also hinted at a new era for the Women’s Strawweight division. Is this the beginning of a championship journey for the rising star? Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely.

As the UFC wraps up 2024, December promises to be a barnburner with marquee matchups, title fights, and must-see bouts that will shape the future of various divisions. From undefeated contenders clashing to seasoned veterans proving their mettle, here are the top 10 fights that have every MMA fan buzzing. UFC 310: Pantoja vs. Asakura 1. Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Asakura Event Date:  Saturday, December 7, 2024 | Location:  Las Vegas, Nevada This Flyweight Championship bout headlines UFC 310 as reigning champ Alexandre Pantoja  faces Rizin standout Kai Asakura  in a classic grappler-vs-striker showdown. Can Pantoja defend his throne for the third time, or will Asakura’s striking prowess deliver a stunning upset? 2. Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Ian Machado Garry Two undefeated welterweight titans, Shavkat Rakhmonov  and Ian Machado Garry , collide in a high-stakes co-main event. With a title shot hanging in the balance, this showdown promises fireworks as both fighters put their spotless records on the line. 3. Movsar Evloev vs. Aljamain Sterling Former Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling  tests the waters in his second featherweight bout against the unbeaten grappling ace Movsar Evloev . This pivotal fight could determine the next big contender in the highly competitive 145-pound division. 4. Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov A heavyweight rematch with huge implications, Ciryl Gane  and Alexander Volkov  face off in a battle of elite strikers. Both fighters have made adjustments since their first encounter, making this a can't-miss clash. 5. Randy Brown vs. Bryan Battle – UFC 310 Welterweights Randy Brown  and Bryan Battle  clash in a bout with ranking implications. Brown’s technical prowess meets Battle’s aggressive style, setting the stage for a thrilling fight that could elevate the winner into the welterweight rankings. UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley 1. Colby Covington vs. Joaquin Buckley Event Date:  Saturday, December 14, 2024 | Location:  Tampa, Florida The brash and battle-tested Colby Covington  headlines the final UFC event of the year against the surging welterweight star Joaquin Buckley . With Buckley riding a five-fight win streak, including a knockout of Stephen Thompson, can he topple one of the division’s most durable veterans? 2. Amanda Ribas vs. Mackenzie Dern 2 In a rematch five years in the making, strawweight contenders Amanda Ribas  and Mackenzie Dern  square off once again. Both fighters are looking to climb back into title contention, making this bout as strategic as it is personal. 3. Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva Expect fireworks in this flyweight matchup as the enigmatic Manel Kape  takes on the surging Bruno Silva . With Kape’s dynamic striking and Silva’s finishing ability, this bout could steal the show in Tampa. 4. Sean Woodson vs. Fernando Padilla Two tall, rangy featherweights, Sean Woodson  and Fernando Padilla , go head-to-head in a stylistic dream matchup. Both fighters are looking to crack the division’s Top 15, adding even more stakes to this exciting clash. 5. Joel Alvarez vs. Drakkar Klose – UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Buckley Lightweight sleepers Joel Alvarez  and Drakkar Klose  meet in a bout that promises high-level grappling exchanges and striking precision. Each fighter is riding momentum, making this a key fight to watch in the stacked 155-pound division. This lineup showcases a perfect blend of title fights, grudge matches, and rising contenders staking their claim in the sport. Whether it’s Pantoja defending his legacy, Covington trying to hold off the red-hot Buckley, or the epic Rakhmonov vs. Garry clash, December is set to close 2024 with a bang. Don’t miss a second of the action — mark your calendars for these electrifying events!

BRAVE Combat Federation, is set to light up Bahrain on December 13 with a full stacked fight card for BRAVE CF 91, part of the highly anticipated BRAVE International Combat Week . A Bantamweight Battle for the Ages Headlining the event is a historic All-African Bantamweight title showdown between reigning champion Nkosi Ndebele  and challenger Nicholas Hwende . This monumental clash marks the first time two African fighters will compete for a world title in BRAVE CF history. Ndebele, fresh off a dominant title defense against Jose Torres at BRAVE CF 82 in Mauritius, faces Hwende, who’s riding a two-fight win streak, including a statement victory over Khurshed Nazarov. Arab MMA Legend Hamza Kooheji Returns In the co-main event, Hamza Kooheji , Bahrain's beloved MMA icon, makes his long-awaited return to the BRAVE CF cage after a two-year injury hiatus. Kooheji aims to reignite his title aspirations as he faces Alperen Karabulut , a Turkish sensation looking to make a thunderous debut. Fighting in front of his home crowd, Kooheji's comeback story adds an emotional layer to an already electric event. Muhammad Mokaev's Perfect Record on the Line Muhammad Mokaev , widely regarded as the best undefeated Flyweight in the world, puts his pristine 12-0 record to the test against South Africa's Luthando Biko , who enters on a four-fight winning streak. This matchup promises fireworks as Mokaev continues his climb to global dominance. More Action-Packed Matchups Flyweight standouts Dias Erengaipov  (Kazakhstan) and Marciano Ferreira  (Brazil) square off in a pivotal bout as the division inches closer to crowning its inaugural champion. In the Super Welterweight division, undefeated rising star Eliezer Kubanza  meets Bahrain’s Zagid Gaidarov , who boasts an impressive six-fight win streak. Former Olympic wrestler Mahmoud Sebie  takes on Kazakhstan’s Babur Maymakov , while Women’s Flyweight sensation Sabrina De Souza  battles Filipino standout Mariane Mariano . Homegrown Bahraini Talent in the Spotlight The preliminary card will showcase Bahraini superstars Mohammed Alsameea  and Hussain Al Kurdi , who face Egypt’s Salah Walid  and Seif Shawki , respectively, ensuring a thrilling start to the night. A Week of Combat Extravaganza Held at the Khalifa Sports City Arena  in Isa Town, Bahrain, BRAVE CF 91 kicks off BRAVE International Combat Week , which also features the IMMAF Youth Asian Championship  on December 14-15 and BRAVE CF 92  on December 15. This eleventh BRAVE CF event of the year is poised to deliver unforgettable moments and cement Bahrain’s reputation as a hub for MMA excellence. BRAVE CF 91 Full Fight Card Main Card Undisputed Bantamweight Championship : Nkosi Ndebele (South Africa) vs. Nicholas Hwende (Zimbabwe) Bantamweight : Hamza Kooheji (Bahrain) vs. Alperen Karabulut (Turkey) Flyweight : Muhammad Mokaev (UK) vs. Luthando Biko (South Africa) Flyweight : Dias Erengaipov (Kazakhstan) vs. Marciano Ferreira (Brazil) Super Welterweight : Zagid Gaidarov (Bahrain) vs. Eliezer Kubanza (DRC) Preliminary Card Super Lightweight : Mahmoud Sebie (Egypt) vs. Babur Maymakov (Kazakhstan) Flyweight : Sabrina De Souza (Bahrain) vs. Mariane Mariano (Philippines) Flyweight : Mohammed Alsameea (Bahrain) vs. Salah Walid (Egypt) Lightweight : Hussain Al Kurdi (Bahrain) vs. Seif Shawki (Egypt) Prepare for history, drama, and explosive action at BRAVE CF 91 !

Reece McLaren is laser-focused on his lifelong dream: the ONE Flyweight MMA World Championship. With the legendary Demetrious Johnson retiring and leaving the title up for grabs, McLaren sees his chance to rise to the occasion. But before he can punch his ticket to the gold, the Aussie fighter must conquer a colossal challenge—current ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Jarred "The Monkey God" Brooks—on Friday, December 6, at ONE Fight Night 26 on Prime Video. McLaren, known as "Lightning," isn’t convinced Brooks can handle the move up to flyweight. “Every time [Brooks] talked about coming up to fight DJ, he kept talking about coming up to flyweight. I would constantly be telling him he’s too small, too short. I’m standing by that. You should stay at strawweight, bro,” McLaren said. Brooks has dominated the strawweight division, but McLaren believes things will be different at flyweight. He openly criticized Brooks’ style, labeling it as overly reliant on wrestling. “I kind of feel he is a little bit one-dimensional with his wrestling offense. He moves lots, and then he always looks to try and wrestle,” McLaren said. Despite only having a four-week camp, McLaren has promised fans fireworks. "He’s probably not gonna be fighting the best Reece, but he’s definitely as hell going to be fighting the most violent. I can guarantee violence,” the Aussie declared. McLaren aims to make Brooks look like an amateur while delivering a highlight-reel performance for the global audience. But McLaren isn’t underestimating Brooks’ credentials. He recognizes Brooks’ status as a reigning World Champion and the opportunity a win represents. “He is a current World Champion and a World Champion for a reason. I cannot deny his skill. He is an awesome fighter, I think,” McLaren said. This matchup is more than just another fight for McLaren; it’s a stepping stone toward fulfilling his destiny. With the flyweight title now vacant, McLaren is determined to solidify his position as the next contender. “With DJ retiring, I think for sure I’ll put my name way up at the top for a shot for the vacant belt coming off a good win,” he asserted. McLaren knows the stakes. A victory over a World Champion like Brooks would catapult him into the conversation for the coveted flyweight belt. “I feel like I should be fighting for a World Title. If that’s not the case, then this stamps my name on that top-tier list for the next title contender by taking out a current World Champion,” he added. The stage is set for an explosive showdown at ONE Fight Night 26, airing live on Prime Video at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST on Friday, December 6. The event is free for Amazon Prime subscribers in the U.S. and Canada. With everything on the line, McLaren promises nothing short of violence and glory in his pursuit of gold.