Uzbek MMA Fighter Is ‘Coming for the Top’ at ONE SAMURAI 1

Uzbek sensation Avazbek Kholmirzaev has his eyes set on history.

The 25-year-old challenges reigning ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu at ONE SAMURAI 1 on Wednesday, April 29, live from Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Avazbek Kholmirzaev is one of the most dangerous challengers in the flyweight MMA division. He carries a 9-1 ONE record with eight victories via finish, backed by a six-bout winning streak, and his nickname “Ninzya” – meaning ninja – reflects the all-round finishing ability he brings to every fight.

A former military serviceman, Kholmirzaev is chasing a prize no fighter from his country has ever claimed.

Avazbek Kholmirzaev Says Mindset and Determination Will Make the Difference

Avazbek Kholmirzaev has kept his preparation focused and his message direct. The Uzbek challenger is not overcomplicating his approach to the biggest fight of his career, backing the qualities that have carried him to eight promotional finishes to carry him to the gold on April 29.

“I am hungry, disciplined, and always improving. I believe my mindset and my determination will make the difference in this fight. I think it will be a good fight. I will do my best and try to get the win. Right now, I’m focused only on this fight. We will see what happens next,” Avazbek Kholmirzaev said.

The 25-year-old has finished opponents via strikes and submissions throughout his ONE career, making him a genuine threat in every phase of a flyweight MMA contest.

Wakamatsu’s 10-4 ONE record and back-to-back title fight victories reflect a champion who has been tested at the highest level, and Kholmirzaev knows he is stepping into the ring against one of the division’s most experienced fighters.

Challenger Plans to Impose His Game in All Areas

The Raqobat Gym representative has mapped out a clear game plan for the title fight. Avazbek Kholmirzaev respects what Wakamatsu brings to the ring, but he makes his own intentions equally clear.

“Wakamatsu is a very good fighter, strong and experienced. But inside the there is no friendship. I am coming to win. I will just try to show my own game. My game plan is to control the fight, stay focused, and use my skills in all areas – striking, wrestling, and grappling. I am ready for every situation,” he explained.

Wakamatsu is no easy target for Avazbek Kholmirzaev. The reigning champion knocked out legendary Adriano Moraes to claim the vacant ONE Flyweight MMA World Title at ONE 172 in front of his home fans, then defended against reigning ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio via TKO at ONE 173. He enters April 29 on a five-bout winning streak and in the form of his life.

Uzbek Fighter Avazbek Kholmirzaev Says This Is Only the Beginning

Avazbek Kholmirzaev is thinking beyond the title fight itself. The Uzbek has made clear that claiming the ONE Flyweight MMA World Championship in Tokyo would not be the end of his ambitions but the start of something bigger.

“Fans can expect an exciting and high-level fight. I will come forward, fight with heart, and look for the finish. Thank you to everyone who supports me. I will do my best to make you proud. This is just the beginning – I am coming for the top,” he said.

Becoming Uzbekistan’s first ONE World Champion inside a packed Ariake Arena would be one of the most significant results in the country’s combat sports history. Avazbek Kholmirzaev has the finishing ability, the momentum, and the motivation to make it happen on April 29.

ONE SAMURAI 1 takes place on Wednesday, April 29, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. Fans can watch the global PPV on live.onefc.com.