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It's safe to say that two-division MMA world champion Christian Lee isn't all that impressed by what Alibeg Rasulov brings to the table at ONE Fight Night 26.
'The Warrior' defends his lightweight gold against the undefeated Turkish athlete in the headline attraction of the promotion's final Prime Video showcase of 2024.
Their scheduled five round slugfest will broadcast live from the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Lee returns following an extended spell off duty due to the tragic passing of his sister, MMA prospect Victoria Lee, in December 2022.
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The Hyperion Fighters representative, meanwhile, makes his sophomore outing, looking to build on his debut win over ex-titleholder Ok Rae Yoon.
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As impressive as his promotional bow was, Lee doesn't make much of it.
Speaking to the Bangkok Post's Nick Atkin, Christian Lee offered:
"He didn't really do anything to prove that he was worthy of the interim belt. It was his first fight in ONE Championship. And so with him missing weight, I think it just went to prove that he isn't the champion yet - he's still a contender fighting for the belt."
Find out if Lee can complete his return in style by tuning in to ONE Fight Night 26, which will be available to all active Amazon Prime Video subscribers in North America this Friday, December 6.
Watch the full interview here:
Ring rust won't be a factor for Christian Lee
Christian Lee's time away from competition will do little to make him any less of a threat.
In fact, the Prodigy Training Center and Evolve MMA megastar admits he's doubled down his training since going on compassionate leave.
With a new mindset and arsenal locked in, the Hawaii-based athlete should have it in him to announce his comeback in style.
Though Rasulov may be the more active fighter over the past 24 months, fans should remember that no one has more finishes in the promotion than the two-division MMA king.
His home is right there in the ONE Circle. Time off has only lit a fire in his belly, and he's ready to let it show at ONE Fight Night 26.
