Doha, Qatar: ONE Championship is making history in the Middle East again. With two World Titles on the line, a legendary farewell, and electrifying martial artists making appearances, ONE 171: Qatar has all the ingredients to be one of the most significant sporting events this year.
On Thursday, February 20, ONE’s global fan base will turn its attention to Lusail Sports Arena in Doha to witness a 13-bout card full of high-stakes spectacles.
As the blockbuster event draws near, here's why ONE 171: Qatar could end up being the most talked-about event of 2025.
An MMA World Championship Trilogy between fierce rivals
A ONE Strawweight MMA World Championship trilogy will headline the event when divisional king Joshua Pacio faces interim titleholder Jarred Brooks to unify their belts.
Their heated rivalry started in December 2022. At that time, "The Monkey God" dethroned Pacio in front of his compatriots in Manila. The American's wrestling pedigree was on point throughout the five-round war to neutralize his rival's signature striking acumen.
In March 2024, the pair met again at ONE 166 in Doha. An illegal slam from Brooks marked a controversial ending in the first round. With the series now tied at 1-1, the upcoming battle will determine who truly reigns supreme in the division.
Two of the world's most exciting strikers collide
ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion Jonathan Haggerty has been known for his electrifying fighting style, and now he will have to defend against Wei Rui, a dangerous challenger who rides a 21-fight win streak dating back to 2018.
Haggerty may not be able to use his devastating elbows under kickboxing rules, but his dynamic footwork and explosive strikes have been proven dangerous for any opponent. Meanwhile, Wei's experience and precision will be troublesome for the Brit.
With two high-level strikers meeting in the Circle, this could be a Fight of the Year contender.
High-Stakes MMA battles with potential world title implications
A slew of MMA showdowns will take center stage, with the winners potentially edging closer to a World Title opportunity.
In middleweight, Shamil Erdogan will rematch Aung La N Sang following the Turkish's decision victory at ONE 168 last year. Divisional king Anatoly Malykhin will surely pay close attention.
Just before that matchup, Dagi Arslanaliev will square off with Roberto Soldic in a welterweight clash between two finishers.
The two warriors possess astonishing 100 and 90 percent finishing rates, respectively. A win in Doha could bring either of them closer to divisional ruler Christian Lee.
Meanwhile, a crucial battle between #4-ranked Shamil Gasanov and #5-ranked Martin Nguyen could reshape the stacked featherweight division. Though a win may not immediately guarantee a World Title shot, securing a victory would be a major statement.
The last MMA fight Of Bibiano Fernandes’ career
A true legend of the sport, Bibiano Fernandes will step into the Circle for the final time at ONE 171: Qatar.
The former 11-time ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion has been one of the most dominant and respected figures in the promotion’s history. His elite ground game, championship mindset, and longevity have made him an icon.
And fittingly, he will close out his career against his greatest rival – Kevin Belingon.
More than just another fight, it’s a farewell to one of MMA’s greatest bantamweights, and fans will witness the final chapter of a storied rivalry in ONE Championship.
The rise Of Middle Eastern combat sports stars
Middle East has long been touted as a hotbed for up-and-coming martial artists, and ONE 171: Qatar will be the perfect stage to showcase that.
The stacked card features some rising stars from the region. Abdullo Khodzhaev of Tajikistan squares off against Wilian Poles in a lightweight MMA battle.
Under the bright lights of the blockbuster event, an impressive showing could catapult Khodzhaev to global stardom.
