Get ready for an electrifying night of combat sports as ONE Championship presents ONE 171, set to take place in Qatar on February 20, 2025. This highly anticipated event promises a spectacular lineup packed with compelling matchups and deeply rooted rivalries that are sure to captivate fight fans worldwide. ONE 171 is poised to deliver unforgettable moments, showcasing both the explosive return of a legendary contender and the continuation of historic battles.
Robert Soldic Makes His Grand Return
The return of Croatian knockout artist Robert Soldic to the ONE Championship arena is a massive highlight for ONE 171. After an extended break of nearly two years, the former KSW champion, who boasts an impressive 20-4 professional record, is set to make his highly anticipated comeback. His first fight back pits him against the dangerous Dagi Arslanaliev, a fighter with a 9-2 record who is making a strategic move down from lightweight to welterweight for this bout. This clash of styles is something fans have been clamoring for, promising a dynamic and potentially brutal encounter. Soldic’s return isn’t just about stepping back into the cage; it’s a statement from a proven champion aiming to reassert his dominance on the global stage against a hungry and capable contender.
A Legendary Rivalry Continues Its Saga
ONE 171 will also feature the next thrilling installment in one of the most intense rivalries in ONE Championship history. Two former bantamweight kings, Bibiano Fernandes and Kevin Belingon, are scheduled to meet for the fifth time in their careers. With Fernandes currently holding a 3-1 advantage in their previous encounters, this bout carries significant weight, especially as Fernandes has hinted that it might be his final professional outing. Their storied rivalry is legendary, marked by hard-fought battles and high stakes that have kept fans on the edge of their seats for years. Belingon, holding a 20-10 record, is determined to even the score and prove his championship mettle, making this fight far more than just another contest; it’s a pivotal moment that will significantly shape both athletes‘ legacies.
New Stars Rise Against Established Challengers
Beyond the marquee attractions, ONE 171 presents a captivating featherweight showdown between the rapidly ascending Shamil Gasanov and the former two-division champion Martin Nguyen. Gasanov, representing the new generation of talent within the promotion, is looking to climb the rankings and position himself for a title opportunity by facing the seasoned veteran Nguyen. This matchup is a fantastic showcase of Gasanov’s immense potential to become a future champion, while also presenting a crucial test for Nguyen, who is determined to reclaim his place among the elite. Fans can anticipate an engaging display of striking and grappling prowess, highlighting the diverse and formidable skill sets that both fighters bring to the ONE Championship arena.
