Eight-time World Champion Michelle Nicolini is proving beyond a reasonable doubt that she is just as dominant in MMA as she is in BJJ.
Tonight at ONE Championship’s Kings Of Destiny, Nicolini took on Russian striking powerhouse, Irina Mazepa at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila.
Who shall reign as 👑 tonight? TV: Check local listings for global broadcast | PPV: Official livestream at oneppv.com | Tickets: bit.ly/onedestiny
Posted by ONE Championship on Thursday, April 20, 2017
Mazepa was not only undefeated at the time, but was coming off of a win over renowned boxer, Ana Julaton.
Yet as tough as Irina was on her feet, she was severely outmatched on the ground against Nicolini, a third-degree black belt in BJJ. Michelle took Irina down early in the first round. Rather than try to create distance, Mazepa held Nicolini close to her, allowing the World Champion to effortlessly slide into mount.
Again, Irina just held on, and though she was able to use her sheer power to bridge her way out of mount and put Michelle on her back, Nicolini picked Irina up with her legs, maneuvered herself into an armbar position, and cranked away, handing Irina Mazepa her first loss.
Manila / April 2017: Michelle Nicolini vs Irina Mazepa
Amazing armbar from BJJ queen Michelle Nicolini BJJ! Catch the main card at oneppv.com. Check your local listings for global broadcast.
Posted by ONE Championship on Friday, April 21, 2017
Nicolini is now 4-1 in MMA, and all of her wins have come by way of submission.
Ladies and gentlemen, Michelle Nicolini is going places in the world of MMA!
