Andrade’s path to the ONE bantamweight MMA world championship showcased exactly why strikers fear facing him. His systematic destruction of John Lineker across two contests established his credentials, with the rematch at ONE Fight Night 7 forcing Lineker’s corner to stop the punishment after four rounds of relentless striking.
His first title defense reinforced that dominance. The 42-second liver shot finish of Kwon Won Il this past January reminded everyone why Andrade remains one of the sport’s most feared strikers. That type of efficient danger creates psychological advantages before fights even begin.
But Baatarkhuu represents everything that neutralizes strikers. The 36-year-old Mongolian has built his contender status on suffocating grappling and an iron will that has broken previously undefeated prospects. His submission victories show finishing ability that could end Andrade’s reign in moments if the action hits the ground.
The tactical dynamics create fascinating possibilities. Andrade needs to maintain distance and impose his striking game, while Baatarkhuu must close the gap and drag the champion into grappling exchanges where his advantages become decisive.
Baatarkhuu’s recent momentum validates his title shot. His arm-triangle submission of Carlo Bumina-ang came with just one second remaining, showing the type of persistence that he possesses. His subsequent kimura finish at featherweight proved his techniques work across weight classes, while his decision over Jeremy Pacatiw demonstrated tactical patience against quality opposition.
Andrade’s striking advantage is obvious, but the challenger’s path to victory is equally clear. Baatarkhuu has consistently proven that even the most dangerous strikers become vulnerable once control shifts to the ground. His suffocating style leaves little room for the explosive striking exchanges where Andrade does his best work.
December in Bangkok will determine whether Andrade’s striking supremacy can overcome the ultimate stylistic challenge, or whether Baatarkhuu’s grappling proves sufficient to dethrone one of the division’s most dangerous champions.
The co-main event delivers its own compelling narrative when two-time ADCC world champion Diogo Reis faces Japanese submission specialist Daiki Yonekura for the vacant ONE flyweight submission grappling world championship.
Reis’ creative grappling and quick finishes contrast with Yonekura’s lightning-fast leg locks, creating a matchup where both athletes possess techniques that could produce sudden submissions.
