ONE Championship is gearing up for an exhilarating event on February 20, 2025, with the introduction of three highly-anticipated fights at ONE 171, set to take place in Qatar. This card features a variety of athletes, including the return of Croatia’s Roberto Soldic, a clash among former bantamweight champions, and a showdown between established featherweights. Each match not only adds depth to the event but also raises the stakes for those competing.
One of the most intriguing aspects of ONE 171 is the return of the Croatian fighter Roberto Soldic, whose record stands at 20 wins and 4 losses. Soldic has been absent from the cage for nearly two years. His last outings were marked by a no contest and an upset defeat, which left his record with mixed reviews. The expectations are high as he prepares to face Dagi Arslanaliev, who holds a 9-2 record. This fight marks a significant move for Arslanaliev, who is stepping up from lightweight to welterweight, signaling his readiness to compete at a challenging level. A victory for either fighter holds substantial implications; for Soldic, it’s about reclaiming his position and dominance, while for Arslanaliev, it could pave the way for a title shot against the current champion, Christian Lee.
The event also showcases an epic rivalry that has drawn interest for its historical significance: the fifth clash between former bantamweight champions Bibiano Fernandes and Kevin Belingon. With a professional record of 24 wins and 6 losses, Fernandes has hinted that this will be his final fight, which adds a poignant layer to the matchup. Currently leading the series 3-1—with the majority of their encounters resulting in stoppages—Fernandes is eager to cement his legacy with another victory. Conversely, Belingon, with a record of 20 wins and 10 losses, is determined to even the score and make a statement of his own, proving that experience in the ring can still be challenged.
Further intensifying the fever pitch of the event is a featherweight contest between Shamil Gasanov and Martin Nguyen. Gasanov enters this bout with a strong record of 14 wins and 1 loss, while former two-division champion Nguyen carries a record of 15 wins and 7 losses. This fight is crucial for both competitors; Gasanov could assert himself as a rising star, while Nguyen aims to demonstrate that he remains a formidable force in the division. Their clash, layered with the potential for both triumph and setback, embodies the unpredictability and excitement that ONE Championship consistently delivers.
As ONE 171 approaches, the anticipation grows for an event that not only features remarkable athletes but also promises intriguing narratives and the potential for pivotal career developments. The combination of storied fighters, swaps between weight classes, and the closing chapters of illustrious careers makes this card a must-watch for fans of combat sports. With everything on the line, the February event in Qatar is set to be a thrilling spectacle that will resonate throughout the sport.