Will Fleury Knocks Out Ex-UFC Fighter Martin Buday in Stunning Oktagon MMA Title Defense

Will Fleury scored a massive first-round knockout over UFC veteran Martin Buday. The fight headlined Oktagon 81 in Prague this past weekend. Fleury successfully defended his heavyweight championship in devastating fashion. The event capped off the Czech promotion’s 2025 calendar.Buday entered the bout as a slight favorite despite being the challenger. His release from the UFC after a 7-1 record was a surprise to many. This fight was his debut for the Oktagon promotion, making the loss particularly shocking.

A Quick and Violent End to a Highly Anticipated Bout

The fight did not last long. Fleury found his range quickly against the taller Slovakian. He dropped Buday with a sharp counter left hand in the early exchange.Buday managed to get back to his feet and move to the fence. Fleury gave him no space to recover, however. The champion swarmed with a relentless barrage of punches.The referee stepped in to stop the contest shortly after. Buday was falling to the canvas for a second time. The official time of the stoppage was just over two minutes into the first round.According to Reuters’ sports desk, the victory extends Fleury’s unbeaten streak to nine fights. His run includes wins in Bellator, the PFL, and now Oktagon MMA. He currently holds two titles in the promotion.

Buday’s UFC Exit Questioned After Sudden Defeat

Martin Buday’s departure from the UFC raised eyebrows last summer. He was coming off a decision win over former grappling star Marcus Buchecha. Many analysts considered him a promising contender in the heavyweight division.His quick signing with Oktagon was seen as a major acquisition for the promotion. The loss to Fleury is a significant setback for his career trajectory. It immediately cools any discussion of an immediate return to the UFC.For Will Fleury, this win is arguably the most significant of his career. Defeating a fighter with a strong UFC record adds considerable legitimacy to his resume. It positions him as one of the most accomplished champions outside the UFC umbrella.The performance will inevitably fuel calls for the UFC to sign him. Whether the promotion pursues the 36-year-old two-division champion remains to be seen. For now, he reigns supreme in one of Europe’s top MMA organizations.

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Will Fleury’s dominant win over Martin Buday proves his status as a top-tier heavyweight outside the UFC. The knockout sends a clear message to the global MMA landscape.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Will Fleury?

Will Fleury is an Irish mixed martial artist. He is the current Oktagon MMA heavyweight and light heavyweight champion. He previously competed for Bellator MMA and the Professional Fighters League.

Why did Martin Buday leave the UFC?

The UFC surprisingly chose not to renew Buday’s contract after a 7-1 run. The specific reasons for his release were not publicly disclosed by the promotion. He was a free agent for only a short time before signing with Oktagon.

What was Buday’s UFC record?

Martin Buday compiled a record of 7 wins and 1 loss in the UFC. His only loss came via disqualification. His wins included decisions over respected veterans like Jake Collier and Lukasz Brzeski.

What does this loss mean for Buday’s career?

This knockout loss is a major setback for Buday’s momentum. It halts his three-fight winning streak and damages his market value. He will likely need multiple wins in Oktagon to rebuild his status.

What is next for Will Fleury?

Fleury will likely defend one of his two Oktagon titles next. Potential contenders include other Oktagon heavyweights or a big-name free agent. A move to the UFC or PFL is now a topic of serious discussion.

Trusted Sources: Reuters