Raul Lemberanskij Outclasses Jose Zarauz in Tactical
Azerbaijan’s Raul Lemberanskij extended his undefeated streak to 8-0 with a clinical unanimous decision win over Peru’s Jose “The Mercenary” Zarauz at Oktagon 76 on September 20, 2025, in Frankfurt, Germany. The bantamweight bout, contested at 135 lbs on the preliminary card, saw Lemberanskij dominate all three rounds with superior footwork, timing, and composure, earning scorecards of 30-27 and 29-28 x2.
Round 1: Lemberanskij Sets the Tempo
Zarauz came out aggressive, looking to pressure early with looping punches and clinch attempts. Lemberanskij responded with sharp counters and lateral movement, keeping the veteran off balance. A stiff jab and well-timed body kick marked the round’s turning point, as Lemberanskij began to dictate range and rhythm.
Round 2: Tactical Precision
The second round saw Lemberanskij shift gears, mixing in takedown feints and low kicks that disrupted Zarauz’s forward pressure. While Zarauz landed a few clean shots in the pocket, Lemberanskij’s volume and accuracy gave him the edge. A late flurry near the fence sealed the round for the Azerbaijani prospect.
Round 3: Closing the Door
With the fight still competitive, Lemberanskij stayed composed and calculated in the final round. He avoided damage, landed clean counters, and stuffed Zarauz’s final takedown attempt. The judges rewarded his consistency and control, handing him a unanimous decision and his eighth professional win.
Post-Fight Reaction: “I’m Ready for the Top Tier”
“I knew he’d come hard, but I stayed sharp and stuck to the game plan,” Lemberanskij said post-fight. “I’m ready for the top tier now. Give me anyone in the top 10.” Fighting out of MMA Spirit in Frankfurt, Lemberanskij continues to build momentum in Oktagon’s bantamweight division.
What’s Next for Lemberanskij?
With a perfect record and a growing fanbase, Lemberanskij could be in line for a ranked opponent. Potential matchups include Denis Frimpong or a clash with Czech standout Filip Macek. His blend of technical precision and mental toughness makes him a serious threat in Europe’s bantamweight landscape.
Final Thoughts
Raul Lemberanskij didn’t just win—he evolved. Against a seasoned veteran with over 35 fights, he showed poise, adaptability, and championship-level composure. Oktagon 76 was a proving ground, and Lemberanskij proved he’s ready for the next level.
For full bout details and fighter stats, visit Tapology’s official fight center.
Sources
Tags: MMA
