In a thrilling five-minute grappling match at Alash Pride 108 in Astana, Kazakhstan, on May 27, 2023, former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo secured a much-needed victory over former ONE Championship flyweight titleholder Kairat Akhmetov.
This win was especially meaningful for Cejudo, marking his first triumph since 2020 and breaking a three-fight MMA losing streak. By stepping away from the octagon and focusing on grappling, Cejudo showcased the elite wrestling pedigree that earned him Olympic gold, signalling a potential pivot in his competitive strategy.
How the Match Unfolded
The bout opened with both fighters engaging in a collar tie, testing strength and tactics. Akhmetov initially countered a takedown attempt with a front lock choke, but Cejudo’s experience shone through as he defended smoothly.
Cejudo’s key moment came when he executed a well-timed inside trip takedown, reflecting his adaptability and technical precision. Although Akhmetov fought back and escaped side control, Cejudo maintained pressure, finishing strong with another takedown attempt before the clock ran out.
Post-Fight Reflections
After the match, Cejudo praised Akhmetov, calling him a fighter he’s long admired. “I’ve been a big fan of his for a while,” Cejudo said, underlining the mutual respect between two top-tier athletes.
For fans, this grappling victory reignites speculation about Cejudo’s MMA future. With a 16-5 record and no MMA wins since defeating Dominick Cruz in May 2020, many wonder if this successful performance could fuel a UFC comeback.
Akhmetov: Still a Force
Despite the loss, Kairat Akhmetov (30-2 MMA) proved his resilience and high-level grappling skills. Having recently defeated Reece McLaren in ONE Championship, Akhmetov remains a formidable presence in the sport. His ability to recover quickly from Cejudo’s attacks suggests that, with adjustments, he could return stronger for another MMA title run.
Grappling’s Rising Role in MMA
This event also highlights a growing trend: elite MMA fighters turning to grappling-specific matches to sharpen their skill sets. Without the striking risks of MMA, grappling bouts allow athletes to refine their technique, explore new strategies, and prepare for future fights.
Cejudo’s decision to engage in pure grappling signals a possible shift in how modern fighters approach long-term career development — blending specialized competitions with broader MMA ambitions.
Key Takeaways
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Winner | Henry Cejudo |
| Event | Alash Pride 108, Astana, Kazakhstan |
| Opponent | Kairat Akhmetov (former ONE champ) |
| Match Type | Grappling (5-minute bout) |
| MMA Record | Cejudo: 16-5 |
| Last MMA Win | Over Dominick Cruz (May 2020, UFC) |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who did Cejudo defeat?
Kairat Akhmetov, former ONE flyweight champion, in a grappling match. - When was Cejudo’s last MMA win?
May 2020, against Dominick Cruz at UFC 249. - What was the match format?
A grappling-only bout, emphasizing wrestling and submission skills. - What’s next for Cejudo?
While his MMA future is uncertain, this victory may pave the way for a UFC comeback. - What did Cejudo say post-fight?
He expressed admiration for Akhmetov, highlighting respect between top-level athletes.
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