ONE Championship’s return on December 4 for ONE: Big Bang is filled with excitement and intrigue. One of those points of intrigue will be the promotional debut of Amir Aliakbari.
Amir Aliakbari Makes Promotional Debut
Aliakbari adds more depth to the heavyweight division and brings in an incredible skill set to make him an instant threat for the ONE Heavyweight World Championship.
The Iranian is not just a top-level wrestler in reputation. He carries the credentials with him to leave no doubt. Aliakbari is the 2010 World Champion, winning the title in Moscow. Those skills are now being expanded upon as a mixed martial artist.
Since transitioning, Aliakbari has looked strong. He is currently on a five-bout win streak, with four of those finishes coming by way of TKO.
Aliakbari is steadfast in eyeing the heavyweight gold. His eyes are firmly on Brandon Vera. In an Instagram video, Aliakbari tagged Vera so that he would see his message of being ready to rule the division.
An exciting and dominant victory could immediately thrust Aliakbari into the conversation for a title shot. But getting that under his belt in his first ONE contest will not be simple.
In his first ONE bout, Aliakbari will meet the undefeated Russian powerhouse, Islam Abasov.
Abasov has a perfect 100% finishing rate, with all of his victories coming by knockout. It will be a test for him as well to go against a grappler the caliber of Aliakbari.
The power in the hands of Abasov could force Aliakbari into utilizing his outstanding grappling. If so, the classic striker vs. grappler battle will once again come into play in this sport. How far has Aliakbari’s striking progressed? Can Abasov stop his takedowns? These are questions that will likely get answers in Singapore.
Like many martial artists, Aliakbari will also have to deal with knocking off the rust.
The Iranian has not competed since March 2019. Although his training has continued throughout that time, training and competing are two different animals. But now, he will be able to make the walk to the mat and get back to what he does best.
Fans of heavyweight mixed martial arts will need to have their eyes fixated on this matchup. Aliakbari is one of the premier heavyweights to watch and could very well be the future of the division.
Aliakbari vs. Abasov will take place at ONE: Big Bang on Friday, December 4, at 7:30 a.m. EST/4:30 a.m. PST on the B/R Live app.
