Welcome to the latest edition of Missed Fists where we highlight fights from around the world that may have flown under the radar in the midst of the busy MMA schedule. With Christmas just passing, the holiday season has added an extra layer of chaos to the fight calendar. Despite the challenges, fighters continued to put on thrilling performances, and we’ve compiled the best moments for your enjoyment.
This week, Jed will be filling in for Alexander K. Lee who is taking a holiday break. We hope you enjoy the coverage!
(Special thanks to @Barrelelapierna for their KO and submission lists, and @Grabaka_Hitman for sharing video clips. Be sure to follow them and support their Patreon if you can.)
Yutaro Asahi vs. Jan Kaffa
Sung Hyun Lee vs. Berjan Peposhi
Miguel Trindade vs. Kento Haraguchi
Miguel Trindade vs. Chadd Collins
Tenshin Nasukawa vs. Petmai Superlek.
Although MMA is always a fan favorite, the standout moment of the week came from kickboxing, specifically at the Glory Kickboxing’s RISE World Series 2024 Final.
In an electrifying bout during the featherweight grand prix reserve match, Yutaro Asahi sealed the deal with flying knees against Jan Kaffa. The fight ended with controversy, but the display of athleticism was undeniable. Take a look at this!
It’s hard to fathom how Kaffa survived the first knee, and while there may be debate about the second, the impact was clear. Multiple flying knees leading to a finish is a rarity in combat sports.
The excitement continued with Sung Hyun Lee and Berjan Peposhi delivering a thrilling second round marked by knockdowns from both fighters.
Lee secured a majority decision victory, but fell short against eventual grand prix winner Petch in the semifinals.
The star of the night was undeniably Miguel Trindade, claiming knockout victories over Kento Haraguchi and Chadd Collins in the quarterfinals and semifinals respectively. Trindade’s powerful overhand right and brutal knee showcased his dominance in the ring.
Not to be overshadowed, Ryujin Nasukawa, younger brother of Tenshin Nasukawa, also impressed with a spectacular knee victory over Petmai Superlek.
At just 18 years old, Nasukawa’s potential shines bright, with a successful MMA debut at RIZIN 45 last New Year’s Eve.
Salahdine Parnasse vs. Wilson Varela
Marcin Held vs. Davy Gallon
Laïd Zerhouni vs. Alain Van De Merckt
Artur Szczepaniak vs. Alex Lohore
Amaury Wako-Zabo vs. Maciej Rebacz
Transitioning to Poland, KSW hosted its 101st event, headlined by Salahdine Parnasse’s lightweight title defense. Parnasse showcased his skills, securing a second-round finish against Wilson Varela.
With a remarkable 20-2 professional record, Parnasse continues to evolve as a two-division champion outside the UFC.
In the co-main event, Marcin Held impressed with a swift victory over Davy Gallon, utilizing a mounted guillotine choke to secure the win in under three minutes.
Held’s journey through various promotions has now led him to KSW, where his grappling expertise shines in the cage.
Adding to the excitement, Laïd Zerhouni delivered a thunderous KO against Alain Van De Merckt, reminiscent of the classic “He Fell Funny” award moments.
Artur Szczepaniak also left a lasting impression, overwhelming Alex Lohore with a barrage of strikes before the referee intervened.
Early in the event, Amaury Wako-Zabo set the tone with a brutal body shot KO of Maciej Rebacz, showcasing his potential in the sport.
Bagdat Zhubanysh vs. Yan Ferraz
Nikolay Kiosse vs. Nurbek Kabdrakhmanov
Shifting to Kazakhstan, Naiza FC’s 70th event featured two title fights, with Bagdat Zhubanysh successfully defending his strawweight title against Yan Ferraz with a TKO stoppage.
In a dramatic turn of events, Nikolay Kiosse claimed the featherweight title by knocking out Nurbek Kabdrakhmanov with a powerful right hand, securing the upset victory.
WOW. Nikolay Kiosse with the upset KO over NAIZA Featherweight champ Nurbek Kabdrakhmanov.
Absolutely stuck him with a straight right hand then put him out cold with GNP. That was NOT supposed to happen #NAIZA70 pic.twitter.com/hHRn4N2yWO
— caposa (@Grabaka_Hitman) December 21, 2024
With a record of 9-3-1, Kiosse’s knockout prowess at just 27 years old hints at a promising future in the sport.
If you have any suggestions for recent fights or promotions that deserve recognition, please reach out to us on X — @AlexanderKLee — using the hashtag #MissedFists.