Lito Adiwang on why Mansur Malachiev is the dark horse of the strawweight MMA ranks: “His mental fortitude”

Filipino strawweight fighter Lito Adiwang believes his division in ONE Championship has been further fortified with the emergence of quality fighters like Russian Mansur Malachiev, who he considers as a serious challenger.

'Thunder Kid' spoke about it in an interview with Sportskeeda MMA, highlighting how the Dagestani fighter has showcased impressive qualities as a fighter since coming on board the promotion in June last year.

Lito Adiwang shared:

"His (Malachiev) mental fortitude. His Russian-Dagestani mindset of 'break me and I will still fight' is really his main weapon. He also has his submission and wrestling. I think it makes up for about 80% of his game."

Mansur Malachiev raced to his second straight victory at ONE Fight Night 25 on Oct. 4, defeating South African Bokang Masunyane in their all-strawweight contender clash. It was his third victory in four matches to date in ONE.

Meanwhile, Adiwang, too, is making his presence felt in the strawweight class, currently topped by reigning champion and former teammate Joshua Pacio and interim champion Jarred Brooks. He has won three straight since back from knee injury.

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Interim strawweight champion Jarred Brooks also taking note of Mansur Malachiev's emergence

Aside from Lito Adiwang, ONE interim strawweight MMA world champion Jarred Brooks is taking note of Mansur Malachiev's emergence and what he brings to the table. He even sees them touching gloves at some point in the near future.

'The Monkey God' shared his take on the crafty Russian fighter, who is currently the No. 2 strawweight contender, pointing out his strong suits in an interview with Sportskeeda MMA, saying:

"Malachiev has a hard overall style to fight, Long arms, good jab and hook. A lot of people haven't seen it but the guy has great catch subs if he gets your neck."

Mansur Malachiev has been on a tear since joining ONE Championship midway last year. He has won three of four matches to date, with his lone defeat coming at the hands of Joshua Pacio, currently the reigning world champion.

His impressive run has put him in solid position to challenge Pacio when he gets back from his knee injury or a match with Brooks for the interim belt.