Roberto Soldic erased the memories of his first two disappointing outings in ONE Championship with just one strike. At ONE 171: Qatar, “Robocop” got back in the win column with a massive knockout over Dagi Arslanaliev. It was a captivating and shocking KO that left fan’s mouths agape.
Roberto Soldic Finishes Dagi Arslanaliev Inside Round One
Arslanaliev was moving well and keeping a high pace early in the match. Soldic was waiting for his moment, and when he timed an entry of his foe he unleashed his immense power. The left hand darted over the top and sent the Turkish athlete face-first into the canvas.
Following the bout, Roberto Soldic reiterated his push for contention in 2025. At the post-event press conference, he made it known he was back in peak form. After his stunning KO, it is hard to deny.
“I said before the future is mine. When I step into the cage, I will be a big problem for anyone, you know. And I hope I fight for the title,” Roberto Soldic said.
ONE CEO Gives Roberto Soldic His Plaudit
The performance also stunned ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong. He talked about the hardships Roberto Soldic had faced over the past year, and how the impressive victory moved him right back into the welterweight title picture. Additionally, Sityodtong said he would not oppose a ONE 168 rematch with Zebaztian Kadestam.
“And he’s had a string of bad luck too. Injuries and stuff like that. So that’s why he was so happy, right? But you could see Roberto, and this is what I think fans around the world can now see his monstrous KO power. But obviously, you know, Kadestam took it very well in Denver. So I definitely want to see a rematch, but I definitely also want to see a potential title shot,” Sityodtong remarked.
DDP Impressed by Roberto Soldic’s Finish, Too
Sityodtong continued to praise the performance, as many others have continued to do around the martial arts sphere. Among those is UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis, who knows exactly how Roberto Soldic’s left hand feels. That’s exactly what he said in a social media reply to the highlight-reel KO.
“Wow!! Well done, Soldic. Hardest left hand in [the] world, I’m talking from experience,” du Plessis wrote.
“Robocop” has got a little bit of momentum to start his 2025. With the words from ONE’s Chairman and CEO, it appears he can expect bigger matches in the very near future. One thing is for certain, Roberto Soldic’s crushing KO will be among the very best anyone will see all year.
