“This Trilogy Would Make Perfect Sense” – Dominant Flyweight Champion Adriano Moraes Aims to Settle Scores With Kairat Akhmetov
Follow Us
ONE Flyweight World Champion Adriano “Mikinho” Moraes is in the form of his life right now. The Brazilian has all but cleared out the organization’s flyweight division over the past couple of years.
At ONE X, the 33-year-old divisional king took out Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu via a guillotine choke in the third round. Before that, “Mikinho” shocked the world when he became the first athlete to knockout MMA GOAT Demetrious Johnson.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The sky seems to be the limit for the talented star, but he is more than ready to leave the Circle with more highlight-reel performances.
One name Moraes has in mind for his next appearance on the global stage is a familiar foe – #2-ranked Kairat “The Kazakh” Akhmetov.
“I believe that Kairat Akhmetov is closer now because we fought twice with one win each, so, this trilogy would make perfect sense. But the decision is up to ONE Championship,” he said.
Akhmetov wrestled the World Title from Moraes’ shoulder in the pair’s first meeting. The tables turned when they clashed in a rematch, though.
ONE Championship Unveils the Full Card for Another Massive Event, ONE: Eersel vs. Sadikovic
“Mikinho” put in one of his most memorable displays to win and unify the flyweight gold. It was a tough challenge, but the American Top Team standout did enough to take home a clear-cut unanimous decision.
Is Adriano Moraes-Kairat Akhmetov 3 on horizon?
A trilogy would live up to its expectation – given their respective form. Like Moraes, Akhmetov has been on a tear in ONE in his last four outings.
The former division king has taken out Ma Hao Bin, Reece McLaren, Dae Hwan Kim, and Danny Kingad. After struggling with injuries and a couple of setbacks in recent years, the Kazakh athlete is back at his best.
Trending
Shaq Warns Lakers Locker Room Of Jeanie Buss Game Plan If Darvin Ham & Co Fail Vs Nuggets
April 24, 2024 09:42 PM EDT
Exclusive: After Claiming He Can Beat Caitlin Clark 1v1, Iowa’s No.1 NFL Draft Prospect Cooper DeJean Comes Clean
April 25, 2024 03:12 PM EDT
Despite Strained Relationship, Gabby Douglas and Simone Biles Are on a Similar Journey With Their Struggles
April 25, 2024 01:46 PM EDT
Why Is Olivia Dunne Under Fire for Code Violation?
April 24, 2024 06:21 PM EDT
‘RIP’ – Heartbroken Brother of John McEnroe Mourns ESPN Legend’s Tragic Death Who Last Tweeted About Coco Gauff
April 21, 2024 02:43 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Despite naming Akhmetov as a potential contender, Moraes isn’t entirely sure whether or not his old foe has done enough.
“After the victory against Wakamatsu, I eliminated the top four in the rankings. So, I don’t know who will be the next to fight for the belt.”
For now, Moraes can only wait to see who he draws next. However, one thing is certain – the Brazilian will put on a show inside the Circle.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“Legend-Versus-Legend Two” – ONE Championship Veteran Eduard Folayang Targets ‘Explosive’ Fight Against Japanese Legend
Download the ONE Super App to keep up to date with all the latest news on your favorite martial arts heroes.
Edited by:
Arman Khan