“Best heavyweight wrestler in the world” - ‘Reug Reug’s’ utter domination of Batradz Gazzaev has fans proclaiming his greatness

Before Oumar 'Reug Reug' Kane became the ONE heavyweight MMA world champion, one pivotal bout marked the turning point in his rise to the top of the division.

That moment unfolded at ONE 161 in Sept. 2022, where the Senegalese behemoth faced Russia’s Batradz Gazzaev.

Watch the highlights of that matchup below:

At the time, 'Reug Reug' was coming off a heartbreaking defeat and was determined to launch his road to redemption. He did so in emphatic fashion at Gazzaev’s expense, delivering a performance that showcased his evolution as a mixed martial artist.

Vowing to demonstrate the improvements he had made since suffering his first career loss in April 2021, Kane backed up his promise. From the opening bell, he stifled Gazzaev’s takedown attempts and countered with heavy strikes, revealing significant strides in his stand-up game.

The aggression continued in the second round, with Kane landing powerful kicks and punches that forced a desperate takedown attempt from Gazzaev. He stuffed the effort, transitioned to the turtle position, and unleashed hammer fists before advancing to the mount.

From there, he sealed the victory with a relentless ground-and-pound assault, earning the finish at the 2:15 mark.

Fans praised 'Reug Reug' in the comment section of the video shown above:

"'Reug Reug' is the best heavyweight wrestler in the world. He showed the Senegalese wrestling value to the world!"

"That guy didn't want no part of those hands."

"The sound of his gloves making contact is scary."

"As he faces the elite, 'Reug Reug' displays a disconcerting serenity. The agility, explosiveness, and power he combines in his wrestling defense are exceptional for his weight class."

That win reignited Kane’s career, propelling him to a four-fight winning streak. During this stretch, he claimed the most significant victory of his career -- defeating Anatoly Malykhin to capture the ONE heavyweight MMA world championship.

At ONE 169 in Nov. 2024, 'Reug Reug' outlasted Malykhin in a grueling five-round war, taking the Russian star into uncharted waters and emerging as the new king of the weight class.

---

'Reug Reug' welcomed as a hero in Senegal

Oumar 'Reug Reug' Kane’s triumph was not just a personal milestone; it was a historic moment for Senegal.

Upon returning home with 26 pounds of gold draped over his shoulder, he was celebrated as a national hero.

Crowds flooded the streets to honor the first African ONE World Champion, cementing Kane’s legacy as a trailblazer for his country and continent.