Shamil Gasanov (13-0) is the latest star from the mountains of Dagestan to make his mark on the global MMA scene.
“The Cobra” will look to continue his undefeated run in the all-encompassing sport when he faces Brazilian jiu-jitsu veteran Garry Tonon (7-1) in the “ONE Fight Night 12: Superlek vs. Khalilov” co-main event at the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on July 14.
Gasanov snatched the No. 5-ranked position in the stacked featherweight division after a single fight in ONE. The Russian star took out then-second ranked contender Kim Jae Woong at ONE Fight Night 3 last October to announce himself as a star to watch.
When discussing the inspiration for his jaw-dropping 12-0 professional run, Gasanov revealed that he, like many of his compatriots, see UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov as a role model.
“In Dagestan, we have a large number of titleholders in various disciplines. One of our living legends is Khabib Nurmagomedov,” he said.
“His achievements have motivated all the Dagestani athletes to strive for success through hard work and dedication.”
The promotional newcomer needed just over two minutes to signal his arrival on the global scene and bounce Kim from the rankings with a slick rear-naked choke submission.
Ahead of his upcoming battle, Gasanov broke down why his debut win was so crucial for his career.
“That victory was extremely important, because I wanted to test myself in one of the best leagues in the world and see where I stand,”
“It was even more significant to see how I performed against the No. 2-ranked fighter in our division.”
“The Cobra” faces the man currently residing in the No. 2 spot in the featherweight division in his upcoming battle. Former world title challenger Tonon has amassed eight wins in ONE since his debut in 2017.
His fearsome reputation makes him the man to beat in the weight class, and victory over him could put Gasanov within striking distance of a shot at the ONE featherweight world title.
With so much on the line, any fighter would be forgiven to be intimidated, but the Dagestani star isn’t fazed, as a lifetime of wrestling has steeled his mind and body for even the most difficult challenge.
“I will approach it just as I always do, treating it as a regular sparring session. I will enter the ring with a calm and composed mindset, focusing on doing my job,” Gasanov said.
“I would advise my fans to keep their eyes fixed on the ring and not to blink, or else they might miss the most thrilling moments of the fight.”
