New champion Nemat surprised by face-off with first challenger, ‘ready for everything’

TDT | Manama                                                

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com     

BRAVE Combat Federation finished its latest Kombat Kingdom series with a new champion, as Nemat Abdrashitov defied the odds to upset reigning titleholder Roman Bogatov in a dogged, five-round performance that truly showcased how well-rounded he really is.

Seen mainly as a finisher, with three stoppages in as many BRAVECF outings, the new champion showcased a new side to his MMA game – counter-wrestling, submission attempts and an endurance that matched that of his opponent.

While he was celebrating his victory, Abdrashitov was surprised by Omar Solomanov, who had been watching BRAVE CF 72 and went up to the cage for a staredown.

The two men seemed in good spirits, with Omar congratulating the new titleholder on the win, despite having picked the former champion Bogatov.

Nemat challenged Solomanov to bring his best when the two meet later in the year.

‘’We’ll see what happens with Omar Solomanov now as my first challenger. I will prepare very hard for this fight as always. Let’s see what he can do to me come fight night and if he can even do anything at all’’.

Abdrashitov also made a point to thank Roman Bogatov, the former champion, for accepting his challenge and said it had been a long road until the belt.

A visibly emotional Nemat paid tribute to his coaches and to BRAVE CF, and its president Mohammed Shahid. ‘’Thank you to Roman, he’s a very tough fighter.

I waited very long for this belt, I prepared really hard for this. I’d like to thank all my coaches and my team.

Thank you to BRAVE Combat Federation, president Mohammed Shahid, and all involved. I’m very happy’’.

BRAVE CF returns next for BRAVE CF 73 on August 12, when the most global MMA organization returns to Colombia as part of the BRAVE Pan-American Combat Week.

In the main event of the evening, Jose ‘’Shorty’’ Torres takes on Nkosi Ndebele for the vacant Bantamweight world title.