Yusup “Maestro” Saadulaev Keeps the Winning Streak Alive
On a crisp Saturday, January 20th, the Dagestani sensation Yusup “Maestro” Saadulaev added another win to his growing tally, marking a five‑game winning streak. He faced fellow BJJ black belt Masakazu “Ashikan Judan” Imanari and emerged victorious via a unanimous decision at the electrifying event ONE: KINGS OF COURAGE.
What a Spectacular Show at Jakarta Convention Center
The fight was nothing short of a battlefield of grappling prowess. A packed crowd watched as each fighter unleashed the most refined versions of their groundcraft, turning the arena into a grappling showdown.
Opening Rounds: A Play for Control
Both competitors started off fighting for the top spot in the early exchanges. Saadulaev, with a quick eye for angles, managed to break the rhythm by attempting a deep north‑south choke, aiming to slam the match into a submission finish.
Yet Imanari—ever the calm warrior—stayed composed, hanging out on his back and de‑emphasizing his opponent’s pressure. He left a lot of formatting to the side, setting the pace for the rest of the bout.
Second Round: The Heel Hook Gambit
Game-shifting momentum came when Imanari stepped up, hunting for a powerful heel hook. It wasn’t just a tactic; it was a statement of strength that could potentially flip out the match in favor of his team.
- Three-time DEEP Champion in two weight categories.
- Known for both strategic submissions and creative ground control.
- His calm walkout on the stage was match‑made into a quiet confidence.
Why the Crowd Loved It
The energy at the venue was palpable. Every roll, every maneuver, and every breath taken by the fighters contributed to a memorable night. Fans were glued to the screen as both athletes turned the mat into a theatre of skill and spectacle.
Saadulaev gave the crowd enough reason to cheer as his seasoned grappling skills clashed against Imanari’s calculated finesse. Ultimately, the judges saw the overall balance and tipped the cards toward the Dagestani, sealing his continuous streak as a reflection of perseverance.
In short, this match was a beautiful testament to what it takes to stand out in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu—raw talent, technical versatility, and a touch of that relentless spirit that keeps fans coming back for more.
Maestro vs Imanari: A Battle of Calm and Chaos
When the bell rang, the crowd expected a slow-burning contest as the grappling specialists hovered patiently in the early rounds. Instead, “Maestro” turned up the heat, landing a couple of sharp jabs that left everyone startled.
The Late‑Game Surge
By the time the final round approached, it felt like the whole deck was going into the hands of a card dealer – anyone could win. The Japanese fighter, Imanari, jacked his adrenaline into overdrive, which proved to be his undoing. A wild punch off him gave Saadulaev the chance to clinch and take Imanari’s back into a takedown.
- Saadulaev’s grip – he locked the top position, showing the kind of control you’d expect from a seasoned pro.
- No referee stoppage – even though he dominated on the mat, the crowd couldn’t rush the judges into a decision.
- Judge’s verdict – after watching the whole back-and-forth, they awarded the win to Saadulaev.
Maestro’s Rise to the Top
With that victory, “Maestro” has broken through the upper echelons of the bantamweight division. He now carries a 17‑4‑1 record with one No Contest, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with.
Revenge on the ONE Stage
And if that wasn’t enough, Maestro also sent a clear message to the returning hero, “Ashikan Judan,” who came back to the promotion after a five and a half year hiatus. It’s safe to say the comeback got a rude awakening.
Bottom line: A fight filled with sudden bursts, strategic holds, and a final decision that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. Maestro is now officially a name in the conversation, while the rest of the division gets an early and entertaining lesson in patience.
