In the latest edition of Missed Fists, the spotlight is on some lesser-known MMA fights that have delivered unforgettable moments. One such moment occurred at a Shooto event in Tokyo, where 25-year-old flyweight Kodai Sudo faced off against veteran Shingo Yakul. Sudo landed a brutal left hook that left Yakul face-down on the canvas, requiring him to be stretchered out of the cage. The impact of the punch was so severe that Yakul’s head and neck appeared to be compressed against the fence, creating a scary scene for all involved.
Meanwhile, at A1 Combat 20 in Wheatland, Calif., welterweight prospect Mirali Huseynov claimed a vacant belt by flattening Sinjen Smith with heavy leather. Despite the quick finish, Smith was able to get back to his feet without the need for a stretcher, showcasing his resilience in the face of adversity.
In another surprising turn of events, Andre Fialho, fighting for the first time since parting ways with the UFC, suffered a first-round knockout at the hands of Jakhongir Jumaev at UAE Warriors in Abu Dhabi. Fialho’s lightning-fast finisher reputation took a hit as Jumaev emerged victorious, marking a significant win in his career.
These are just a few of the thrilling moments from the world of MMA that may have gone unnoticed. Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from the global MMA scene.