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Two-division MMA world champion Christian Lee plans to have a rematch with Alibeg Rasulov "set soon."
At ONE Fight Night 26, Lee ended a two-year layoff by attempting to defend his lightweight MMA world title against Rasulov. 'The Warrior' quickly reminded everyone of why he was considered one of the best fighters on the planet before tragedy struck.
In round two, Lee landed an unintentional eye poke. Rasulov attempted to recover from the damage before announcing he couldn't continue, leading to a no-contest as the fight heated up.
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Lee showcased his world-class skills in the first round, but Rasulov had plenty of time to bounce back. During the post-fight in-ring interview, Lee vocalized his interest in booking an immediate rematch against Rasulov by saying:
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"So I'm sure we'll have a rematch set soon. I’d like to get back in there once he’s healed up."
ONE Fight Night 26 featured several entertaining battles, including Nakrob Fairtex vs. Kongthoranee Sor Sommai, Yuya Wakamatsu vs. Gilbert Nakatani, and more. The entire event headlined by Christian Lee vs. Alibeg Rasulov can be re-watched by North American viewers with a Prime Video subscription.
Christian Lee believes he was "on route" to defeating Alibeg Rasulov
Christian Lee was undoubtedly disappointed not to finish his fight with Alibeg Rasulov. With that said, the two-division MMA world champion remained in high spirits after ending his extended layoff and retaining his lightweight crown.
Following the no-contest, Lee took to Instagram and reacted to his ONE Fight Night 26 performance by saying:
"#ANDSTILL The fight was ruled a no-contest due to an accidental eye poke, but I absolutely believe I was winning the fight and on route to a finish. The leg was damaged, the eye was damaged before the “eye poke”. In my mind this was a clear win. Now on to the next. #ONEFIGHTNIGHT26"
The rematch between Christian Lee vs. Alibeg Rasulov is expected to take place in the first half of 2025. Lee's current focus is on his family, as he and his wife will have a third child in the near future.
Although it's unconfirmed by ONE, a welterweight MMA interim world title might be implemented while Lee defends his lightweight strap against Rasulov.
