Rafael “Indio” Nunes Makes a Big Comeback
The 3½‑Year Break Is a Thing of the Past
After a brief hiatus, Indio—the Brazilian Journeyman—returned to ONE Championship on Friday, 26 January and didn’t waste any instant.
Manila’s Mall Of Asia Arena Turns into a Swirl‑Of‑Action
- Location: The bustling Mall Of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines.
- Event: ONE: GLOBAL SUPERHEROES.
- Opponent: Local favorite Eric “The Natural” Kelly, who threw the whole crowd into a frenzy.
A Calm First Half, Then a Storm
During the opening round, both fighters kept their distance, earning sound respect from each other—almost like an old pair of friends catching up after a long snacking break. Nunes, using his natural reach advantage, kept the fight outside, picking his punches carefully. Kelly, on the other hand, struggled to find his rhythm within Nunes’ long‑armed perimeter.
Getting Down for the Finish
Later in round one, Nunes attempted an armbar—this would have been a classic move—but he over‑committed, only to find himself reversed by Kelly, who thundered down for a full‑on ground standoff.
Victory With the D’arce Choke
When the second round came around, Nunes brought a textbook masterpiece—a D’arce choke. In the cardio‑rich dust of a crowd over‑brimming, he seized the win in the moment, dropping his Filipino comrade to the canvas in a smooth, decisive finish.
Lessons Only One Fighter Could Learn Here
Respect, timing, and that coveted reach are the secret sauce that put the Brazilian teammate on the pedestal that day. One more win bragging rights for Indio. Khan, we watch your next – and if the tech is okay, fire away!
Indio’s Ground Banger in the Second Round
When the lights flashed on, Nunes didn’t waste a minute – he snagged a front kick and sent Kelly straight back to the earth. “Indio” didn’t just sit there; he spun into side‑control, locked in that slick D’arce choke, and made the world go tap‑tap‑tap.
Round‑by‑Round Breakdown
- Kickover: Nunes pulls a front kick, mangoes Kelly off the fine line.
- Switch‑to‑Side: Indio slides into side‑control like a pro.
- Choke Lock: D’arce choke of the year – no escape for Kelly.
- Tap Time: 1:31 of the second round, Kelly taps, sealing the deal.
That finish added another feather to Nunes’ cap: a stunning 11‑1 record and his very first win in the ONE cage. Talk about closing the deal with a double‑tap victory!
