Garry Tonon Handed Gasanov First Loss, Sets Up High-Stakes Rematch at ONE Fight Night 34

Shamil Gasanov came into ONE Fight Night 12 as an undefeated prospect with a 12-0 record, fueled by eleven impressive finishes during his climb to the ONE Championship ranks. His quick victory over Kim Jae Woong had already put him near the top of the featherweight division, while his outspoken attitude set the stage for a heated rivalry with American grappler Garry Tonon.

Their first battle in Bangkok was intense, with both athletes displaying elite MMA and submission skills. Tonon survived Gasanov’s early submission attempts and ultimately finished the Russian with a kneebar, giving Gasanov his first career loss. That moment made headlines and left Gasanov focused on earning a rematch.

Gasanov now has his chance for redemption at ONE Fight Night 34, where he faces Tonon again at Lumpinee Stadium in Thailand. With both fighters eager to prove themselves, their featherweight MMA rematch is set to draw serious attention from dedicated fans and new viewers alike. For more details on the background and card, check out the ONE Championship preview.

Background of Shamil Gasanov vs. Garry Tonon Rivalry

Shamil Gasanov and Garry Tonon’s rivalry started with intense words and high expectations. Their fight was not just about records; it was a battle between two skilled featherweights in ONE Championship, each looking to prove themselves on the biggest stage.

Origins of the Feud

Shamil Gasanov joined ONE Championship carrying an undefeated record and a strong reputation for finishing his opponents. He built hype through a streak of 11 finishes and showcased his grappling by earning a first-round submission against Kim Jae Woong.

His debut set him on a path toward the division’s top contenders. Gasanov quickly became known for his aggressive style and confidence, often calling out top fighters directly.

Garry Tonon, known for his own submission specialty, became a clear target. Gasanov’s public comments and unbeaten record put him in Tonon’s sights, creating anticipation for a showdown between the two. Their rivalry escalated in interviews and press events, raising the stakes for their eventual meeting.

ONE Fight Night 12 Showdown

Their battle took place on a hot July night at the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok. Aired live on Amazon Prime Video, the fight drew attention from MMA fans worldwide.

Gasanov entered ONE Fight Night 12 with a perfect 12-0 record. He started strong, using his wrestling to pressure Tonon and attempted several submissions in the first round. However, Tonon neutralized most attacks and remained calm throughout the exchanges.

Midway through the second round, Tonon seized an opening and caught Gasanov with a well-executed kneebar, ending the Russian’s undefeated streak. The submission was considered clinical and highlighted Tonon’s world-class grappling. For more on Tonon’s kneebar finish, visit Garry Tonon vs. Shamil Gasanov full fight details at ONE Championship’s website: Garry Tonon secured a kneebar submission.

Fight Analysis and Key Moments

Both fighters brought unique strengths and experience to their clash. The contest featured high-level grappling, a sudden submission finish, and tactical moves that shifted the momentum inside Lumpinee Stadium.

Gasanov's Unbeaten Run and Grappling Dominance

Shamil Gasanov entered the bout with a spotless 12-0 record, making waves in the featherweight division by racking up 11 finishes before arriving at ONE Championship. Known for his fierce grappling skills, he grabbed attention by submitting Kim Jae Woong in his debut at ONE on Prime Video 3. His performance showcased why he was viewed as a rising threat.

Gasanov’s mix of wrestling and submission attacks made him stand out in MMA, leading to his quick rise into the top-five featherweight contenders. His ability to chain takedowns, pressure opponents, and hunt for submissions made each round dangerous. Most of his wins came by finish, proving that he could end fights quickly rather than rely on a judge’s decision.

In his fight against Garry Tonon, Gasanov pressed his advantage early. He went for takedowns and looked to secure control, hoping to continue his streak of dominant finishes. His style relied on pace and relentless grappling, which had overwhelmed many opponents before.

Tonon's Submission Breakthrough

Garry Tonon came into the fight with a reputation as one of ONE Championship’s top American submission artists. Nicknamed “The Lion Killer,” he is famous for his Brazilian jiu-jitsu expertise and history of taking out opponents with creative submissions.

During the match, Tonon faced early adversity as Gasanov launched multiple heavy grappling attacks. Tonon’s defense held firm, showing composure in tricky positions. Even as Gasanov looked for his own submissions, Tonon was patient, staying calm and reactive instead of forcing errors.

The fight’s turning point came midway through the second round. In a scramble, Tonon locked in a kneebar—a favored move from his grappling toolkit. The maneuver left Gasanov unable to escape, ending the fight with a statement finish. Tonon's submission not only secured the win but also snapped Gasanov’s undefeated record.

Tactical Adjustments and Standout Techniques

Both fighters brought strong technical approaches. Gasanov used his wrestling and chain grappling to push the pace in the first round, seeking to tire Tonon and set up opportunities for submission or ground-and-pound.

Tonon adapted by constantly moving his hips, working for underhooks, and blocking control attempts. He showed his experience by neutralizing Gasanov’s attacks using frames and near escapes. Tonon’s composure was key, especially when he set traps on the ground.

When the pivotal kneebar came, it was built off earlier exchanges. Tonon capitalized on Gasanov’s slight error while passing guard, quickly locking in the submission. It was a textbook example of advanced grappling in MMA, earning Tonon widespread praise and a highlight spot among the best finishes at ONE Fight Night 12. The bout became a lesson in how high-level jiu-jitsu can change a fight in seconds.

Road to the Rematch at ONE Fight Night 34

Both Garry Tonon and Shamil Gasanov have much at stake in their upcoming featherweight MMA contest at ONE Fight Night 34. This rematch at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok could change the careers of both fighters and shape the ONE Championship featherweight division.

Redemption for Shamil Gasanov

After his first professional loss to Tonon at ONE Fight Night 12, Shamil Gasanov has focused on improving his game and getting back in the win column. The Russian standout’s 12–0 record was snapped by a second-round kneebar, but his determination has only grown since that defeat.

Gasanov’s plan centers on correcting the mistakes that led to his loss in Bangkok. Training harder and sharpening his grappling, he's looking to prove himself worthy of the division’s top ranks. His main goal is simple: even the score with Tonon and reestablish himself as a dominant force in the cage.

Facing a skilled submission artist like Tonon again means Gasanov must manage distance, defend submissions, and capitalize on his own strengths. Many fans see this match as a real test of Gasanov’s growth and mental toughness since that July night in Thailand.

Garry Tonon's Legacy and Ambitions

Garry Tonon’s reputation as a dangerous submission specialist only grew after submitting Gasanov in their first meeting. At 33 years old, Tonon has become a fixture in the ONE Championship featherweight scene and remains hungry for another ONE World Title shot.

Tonon’s ambitions go beyond simply defending his past win. Victory at ONE Fight Night 34 could push him closer to another championship opportunity, solidifying his legacy in the organization. He focuses on using his jiu-jitsu skills and fight IQ to stay ahead against fast-rising contenders.

Tonon is aware of Gasanov’s desire for revenge, but he remains confident in his preparation and ability to deliver under pressure. Competing in Bangkok's iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium is another chance for him to showcase his skills in front of ONE’s global audience.

Impact on the Featherweight Division

This rematch holds big consequences for the ONE Championship featherweight division. A win for Gasanov would mark his arrival back among the top contenders and shake up the title picture moving forward.

If Tonon wins again, he cements himself as one of the elite at 145 pounds and becomes a logical choice for an upcoming title eliminator or direct championship bout. Both athletes’ performances will affect future matchmaking and rankings, possibly drawing new challengers from within the division.

Fans, fighters, and matchmakers will be watching closely. The outcome at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium will help set the tone for the featherweight division for the rest of the year and beyond. For more specifics on the fight details and card, see the official ONE Fight Night 34 event info.

Notable Fighters and Storylines at Lumpinee Stadium

Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok is not just a symbol of Muay Thai tradition but also a major venue for high-profile ONE Championship events. Its ring has hosted fierce showdowns across several weight classes, attracting elite martial artists and producing dramatic rivalries.

Key Contenders and Rivalries

Current standouts like Akbar Abdullaev and Tagir Khalilov have helped increase excitement in the featherweight and flyweight divisions. Abdullaev’s explosive style and unbeaten streak have made him one to watch every time he enters the ring.

Rivalries at Lumpinee often feature world-class talent from different countries, clashing for honor, ranking, and future title shots. Notably, Malykhin and Amir Aliakbari have turned the heavyweight contest into must-see events with their physical strength and knockout power.

Superlek Kiatmuu9, competing in the flyweight Muay Thai division, has become a fan favorite for his technical skill and creative striking. The atmosphere during these high-stakes fights is intense and respectful, where each victory or defeat shapes the future of the division.

Featured Fights and Divisions

The stadium hosts fights from strawweight to heavyweight, with divisions such as lightweight, catchweight, and the ever-popular flyweight Muay Thai. Yuya Wakamatsu is another name making waves in the lighter weight categories with his explosive speed and tactical approach.

Heavyweight battles—often between fighters like Malykhin and Aliakbari—have brought global attention to Lumpinee with memorable moments and dramatic finishes. Meanwhile, catchweight bouts have provided opportunities for unique matchups and exciting style clashes between fighters who don’t fit neatly into a single weight class.

Divisional diversity means fans see technical stand-up displays, submission grappling, and knockout artistry all at one venue, appealing to a wide audience of fight enthusiasts.

Spotlight on Female Fighters

A landmark moment at Lumpinee came when the stadium welcomed its first female fighters in July 2022, signaling a shift toward greater gender inclusion in Muay Thai and MMA. Fighters like Amanda Alequin and Lara Fernandez have emerged as trailblazers, showcasing elite skills and determination.

The rise of female athletes has increased the stadium’s appeal and brought new storylines to major events. Every appearance by these women is closely watched, and their performances are helping redefine what is possible in combat sports at Lumpinee.

Not only do they compete at the same high standard as their male counterparts, but their matches often bring a unique dynamic, energizing the crowd and pushing the sport forward. Find more on this milestone at The History of Lumpinee & Rajadamnern Stadiums.

Kryklia vs. Xhaja and Other Standouts

The Kryklia vs. Xhaja fight has become one of the most talked-about matchups, drawing attention from around the world. Kryklia’s height and technical style clash with Xhaja’s aggressive pace, creating a compelling contest.

Other notable fighters, such as Aaron Canarte, showcase the global reach of Lumpinee’s events. These athletes bring different backgrounds and fight approaches, adding richness to the fight nights.

Each featured bout at Lumpinee carries weight, whether it is for a title, a rise in the rankings, or personal redemption. This combination of top-level competition and dramatic storylines makes every event significant for fans watching in Bangkok or around the globe.

Catch highlight reels and major moments from recent events at legendary Lumpinee Stadium.