For Brooks, this represents more than just another competition. The former ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion finds himself at a career crossroads, seeking redemption after a series of setbacks that have derailed his title aspirations.
The Indiana native’s journey has been marked by both triumph and controversy. After arriving in ONE Championship in 2021, Brooks showcased his world-class wrestling and relentless pressure, eventually capturing the strawweight crown from Joshua Pacio in December 2022.
However, his reign took an unexpected turn when he was disqualified for an illegal slam in their rematch at ONE 166. Though he bounced back to claim interim gold with a submission victory over Gustavo Balart in August 2024, his trilogy contest with Pacio at ONE 171 ended in second-round TKO defeat.
Now 31 years old, Brooks understands the urgency of his situation. Returning to flyweight – where he originally competed – offers a fresh start and new opportunities in his quest to reclaim the belt.
Standing across from him is Malachiev, the skilled Dagestani competitor who has been steadily ascending the divisional rankings since his promotional debut in June 2023. The Russian athlete made an immediate impression by submitting Jeremy Miado in his first ONE appearance, displaying the technical wrestling and well-rounded skills that made him a two-division Eagle FC Champion.
Malachiev’s only career defeat came in a competitive contest against Pacio at ONE Fight Night 15 in October 2023. Rather than allowing that setback to slow his progress, he responded with impressive victories over former titleholder Yosuke Saruta and top-ranked Bokang Masunyane.
The tension between these competitors has been building for years through social media exchanges and interviews, with both athletes claiming superiority in grappling exchanges. Their verbal sparring has created genuine anticipation for this long-overdue resolution.
For Brooks, victory would provide the momentum needed to revitalize his championship pursuits and prove he remains among the division’s elite competitors. His extensive experience and technical wrestling background give him confidence heading into this crucial matchup.
Malachiev sees this as an opportunity to continue his impressive ONE Championship run and establish himself as a legitimate title contender in the flyweight division. His recent performances have demonstrated both skill and composure under pressure.
