Baatarkhuu captured the ONE bantamweight MMA world championship with a rear-naked choke at 1:33 of the fourth round, becoming the second Mongolian to win ONE Championship gold. Former ONE featherweight MMA world champion Narantungalag Jadambaa, Baatarkhuu’s coach and mentor, became the first Mongolian titleholder with his victory over Koji Oishi in August 2014.
President Khurelsukh issued a statement recognizing the achievement’s significance for Mongolia’s sporting history.
“On behalf of the people of Mongolia, I warmly congratulate mixed martial artist Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu for becoming a ONE Championship World Champion and adding a new chapter to the history of professional sports,” President Khurelsukh said.
“We express our deepest gratitude to you for showcasing the courage, endurance, and strength of Mongolian athletes to the world, and we wish you great success and many admirable victories in your sporting career.”
The 36-year-old Baatarkhuu entered the title fight as the No. 4-ranked contender against the dominant champion. He controlled the contest through takedowns, ground control, and striking that included a spinning back kick. Baatarkhuu grew stronger as the fight progressed and finished Andrade in the fourth frame.
ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong awarded Baatarkhuu a $50,000 performance bonus for the victory.
Baatarkhuu’s path to the championship included years working in coal mines while pursuing martial arts training. His story gained additional exposure through his recent appearance on Netflix’s Physical: Asia, where he competed as a finalist for Team Mongolia.
The platform introduced Baatarkhuu to audiences beyond ONE Championship’s fan base ahead of his title challenge.
