Amir Fazli Uses Footwork, Strong Left Hand To Score Second-Round KO, Welterweight Semifinal Spot

For the first time in two-and-a-half years, Rostem Akman makes his return to MMA competition. The Turkish fighter is a two-time IMMAF European Champion and two-time Swedish national BJJ champion, in addition to a bronze medal at the IMMAF World Championship. Akman, who has finishes in six of his seven victories, last fought in February 2023, defeating Djamil Chan by decision.

Amir Fazli found success in the world of Wushu Sanda, becoming an Asian Champion and World Champion in the sport, and becoming the only fighter in the discipline to defeat Muslim Salikhov. The former regional middleweight champion has scored finishes in five of his six wins, four of them being KO/TKOs. Fazli competed in PFL MENA twice last year, losing to Badreddine Diani and Mohammad Alaqraa.

Who will be the first to move on in this year’s PFL MENA Welterweight Tournament?

Round 1

Fazli with a punch. Akman in responds in kind. Akman looking to cut off the SmartCage, while Fazli circles on the outside. Akman pressuring here. Akman with a right hand. Fazli with a low kick. Akman presses Fazli into the fence. Fazli uses the fence to stay on his feet, but Akman has a hold of his back. Fazli tries to escape, but Akman keeps a hold. Akman grabs the leg, while Fazli tries to get him off with punches.

Fazli slips out and gets his back to the fence. Fazli works with way off the fence and lands a knee. Fazli with an uppercut on the separation. Akman with a small combination. Right hand from Akman and an uppercut from Fazli. Fazli escapes a takedown attempt. Fazli misses a spinning backfist. Fazli avoids another takedown.

Round 2

Akman pressuring early, and he lands a small combination. Fazli lands a jab as he continues to move around and away from Akman. Fazli with a jab. Akman looks to come in with a few punches, but it’s Fazli now with the body lock, putting Akman against the fence. Akman is able to work his way off the fence and out of the clinch. Akman misses a left hand. Right hand from Akman. Fazli goes for a body lock, but he can’t get it. Right hand from Fazil DROPS AKMAN OUT COLD! WOW! The highlight finishes are coming one after another tonight!

LIGHTS OUT💡

First Welterweight bout of the night ends in a vicious 2nd Round KO as Amir Fazli connects with a MASSIVE OVERHAND RIGHT 👊😤

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Amir Fazli finds the right moment, the right punch, and he gets the Welterweight Tournament Semifinal spot!

OFFICIAL RESULT

Amir Fazli def. Rostem Akman via second-round knockout (punch)