Mehrab Mammadzada Chokes Out Shazada Ataev in Third-Round

Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Bangkok — October 31, 2025
Azerbaijani grappling phenom Mehrab Mammadzada delivered a clinical performance in his lightweight MMA bout at ONE Friday Fights 131, submitting Turkmenistan’s Shazada Ataev via rear-naked choke at 3:58 of Round 3. The finish capped off a dominant display of positional control, ground transitions, and relentless pressure.

Mammadzada’s Grappling Masterclass Breaks Down Ataev

From the opening round, Mammadzada made his intentions clear—close the distance, drag the fight to the mat, and suffocate Ataev’s offense. While Ataev showed flashes of striking brilliance early, Mammadzada’s takedown entries and top control quickly shifted the momentum.

In Round 2, Mammadzada transitioned from half guard to mount, landing short elbows and threatening submissions. Ataev survived the round but looked visibly fatigued heading into the third.

With less than a minute remaining in Round 3, Mammadzada took Ataev’s back during a scramble and locked in a deep rear-naked choke. Ataev tapped moments later, giving Mammadzada his most impressive win to date.

Ataev’s Striking Neutralized by Mammadzada’s Pressure

Shazada Ataev entered the bout with a reputation for explosive stand-up and knockout power, but Mammadzada’s grappling nullified his weapons. While Ataev landed clean shots in the first round, he was unable to stop the takedowns or escape the ground control.

Lightweight Division Watch: Mammadzada’s Rise Accelerates

With this win, Mehrab Mammadzada continues to climb the ranks of ONE’s lightweight MMA division. His submission prowess and ability to control elite strikers make him a serious threat to the top 10. A matchup against a ranked grappler or a striking specialist could be next.

Conclusion

Mehrab Mammadzada’s third-round submission win over Shazada Ataev was a showcase of elite grappling and fight IQ. In a promotion known for its striking pedigree, Mammadzada is proving that ground dominance still reigns. As ONE Championship continues to spotlight global MMA talent, Mammadzada’s ascent is one fans should follow closely.

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