Alyona Rassohyna ready to take control of atomweight MMA division while Stamp recuperates: “It has to move forward”

Alyona Rassohyna was the first fighter to beat Stamp Fairtex in MMA.

With the reigning atomweight MMA world champion still on the sidelines after suffering a torn meniscus last year, the 34-year-old veteran believes it's only fitting that she should rule as the interim queen of the division in the Thai's absence.

Rassohyna will get the opportunity to claim 26 pounds of gold and secure a trilogy with Stamp if she emerges victorious in less than 24 hours at ONE Fight Night 27: Tang vs. Abdullaev on Prime Video.

The Ukrainian grappling savant will duke it out with No. 2-ranked contender Denice Zamboanga inside Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand for the interim crown in the women's 115-pound MMA ranks.

After a successful knee surgery, Stamp is back in the gym but still doesn't have a timetable for her return.

In the meantime, Alyona Rassohyna would love to assume the reins and hold the fort. But to do so, she must deny 'The Menace's' world championship aspirations.

The Yarost Gym affiliate said during her ONE Fight Night 27 pre-event interview:

"I understand that she has a serious injury that will give her some recovery time. The belt has to live, it has to move forward, and a temporary belt to give other girls a chance to shine is a great idea."

The fourth-ranked atomweight MMA contender added:

"I wish her a speedy recovery, well in the meantime the belt should live on and give the girls a chance to fight and put on a show."

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Alyona Rassohyna says she deserves title bout after her fierce battles with Stamp

After being away from the circle since 2021 following the birth of her two children, many were surprised that Alyonna Rassohyna received the opportunity to claim the interim belt.

Then again, the Ukrainian submission ace says her resume speaks for itself, considering she split her two matches against the reigning atomweight MMA queen.

Alyona Rassohyna told ONE:

"I'm confident in my abilities, no matter what the result was with Stamp. I won [against] her. We had some great fights. And the girls haven't shown competitive fights like she and I have. So I deserve this right to fight for this belt."

ONE Fight Night 27 will air live in US primetime on Jan. 10 free for Prime Video subscribers in North America.