Pakistan’s Rising Star Extends Winning Streak at Major MMA Event

Pakistan’s surging mixed martial arts (MMA) star Ismail Khan, aka “The Volcano,” stole the show at Brave CF 103 with a dominant submission victory that further cemented his status as one of the promotion’s most dangerous rising talents.

Competing in a 60.5kg catchweight bout, Ismail faced Kyrgyz submission specialist Rayimbek Tazhibaev and delivered a composed, clinical performance from start to finish.

He showcased a complete arsenal, battering Tazhibaev’s lead leg with heavy kicks, landing sharp boxing combinations, and confidently engaging in grappling exchanges despite his opponent’s reputation on the mat.

Ismail repeatedly disrupted Tazhibaev’s rhythm, demonstrating superior fight IQ and awareness. On the ground, he matched and then surpassed the Kyrgyz fighter, securing takedowns and applying strong top pressure that left little room for Tazhibaev to work his submission game.

The breakthrough came in the second round. Ismail rocked Tazhibaev with a crisp striking combination, then swiftly transitioned to his grappling.

He took the fight to the canvas, advanced to full mount, and locked in his signature weapon: a tight head-arm triangle choke. The squeeze was so precise that Tazhibaev lost consciousness, forcing the referee to step in and stop the contest.

While Pakistan’s night at Brave CF 103 was defined by Ismail’s explosive win, the event also featured a tough setback for the country’s top mixed martial artist, Rizwan Ali.

Rizwan, who headlined the card in Bukhara, entered the main event with an 11–0 professional record and seven first-round finishes, carrying significant expectations as the face of Pakistani MMA. His preparation hit trouble at the scales when the 28-year-old missed the lightweight limit, turning the fight with Nozim Kalandarov into a 72kg catchweight bout.

Inside the cage, Kalandarov executed a disciplined, grappling-heavy game plan. He secured takedowns in every round, maintained control from the top, and consistently neutralized Rizwan’s striking.

Despite Rizwan’s defensive efforts, he struggled to create space or turn the tide of the bout. After three one-sided rounds, the judges awarded Kalandarov a unanimous decision, handing Rizwan the first loss of his pro career and ending his unbeaten streak.

Rizwan confronted the defeat head-on in his post-fight remarks.

“I took a fight against a hero in Central Asia. I carried an injury throughout the camp but still decided to go ahead. My loss will teach me lessons that will help me rise. I will come back stronger,” he said.