The much-anticipated fifth showdown between Filipino MMA superstar Kevin “The Silencer” Belingon and former ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes is set for ONE 171: Qatar on February 20, 2025, at the Lusail Sports Arena in Doha.
This matchup represents a critical chapter in one of ONE Championship’s most storied rivalries, with Fernandes currently leading the series 3-1. However, Belingon is determined to settle the score in their heated saga.
“I have unfinished business with Bibiano. We have history together, and I want to end our story with me on top,” Belingon stated.
Belingon’s Return to the Circle
After a long hiatus, Belingon is eager to make a triumphant comeback. During his time away, the former world champion focused on improving his skills and conditioning to deliver a performance that fans won’t forget.
“Rest assured, I have been working on my game in my time away. I’m gonna come out ready and entertain our fans, especially the Filipino fans in Qatar,” he said.
Although their rivalry began years ago, many fans argue that it should be tied 2-2 due to the controversial disqualification loss suffered by Belingon in 2019. Regardless of how the series has unfolded, the Filipino star is resolute in his mission to emerge victorious.
Stacked Fight Card at ONE 171: Qatar
ONE 171 will feature more than just the electrifying Belingon vs. Fernandes rivalry. The event boasts a loaded fight card featuring some of the biggest names in ONE Championship:
- Main Event: Jonathan Haggerty defends his ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title against Wei Rui.
- Co-Main Event: ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio faces interim champ Jarred Brooks in a title unification bout.
- Welterweight Showdown: Croatian powerhouse Roberto Soldic meets Turkish finisher Dagi Arslanaliev in a can’t-miss clash.
- Featherweight Duel: #3-ranked Shamil Gasanov squares off against former two-division champion Martin Nguyen in a pivotal divisional bout.
ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong expressed his excitement about the event:
“Fans will witness one of the greatest rivalries in ONE Championship history with Bibiano Fernandes and Kevin Belingon. This fight card is packed with action, including stars like Roberto Soldic and Martin Nguyen. It’s a must-watch night for MMA fans.”
Mark Your Calendars for February 20, 2025
With its mix of legendary rivalries and thrilling matchups, ONE 171: Qatar promises to be one of the most electrifying events of 2025. The Lusail Sports Arena will host an unforgettable night of martial arts, where fighters aim to cement their legacies in the Circle.
Don’t miss Kevin Belingon’s chance to turn the tide against Bibiano Fernandes and bring their rivalry to a dramatic conclusion.
