Huge Lightweight Clash Set for Oktagon 71 in Munich
Lom-Ali Eskijew and Shem Rock will collide in a must-watch lightweight clash at Oktagon 71, set for May 17 in Munich, Germany. This bout pits two of Europe’s top 155-pound prospects against each other in what promises to be a barnburner.
Eskijew (23-7) has been on fire since joining Oktagon MMA, securing back-to-back stoppage victories. The Russian powerhouse, who trains at UFD Gym in Düsseldorf, made an emphatic promotional debut by knocking out Slovak veteran Ivan Buchinger in the first round last September. He followed up with another dominant finish against Wanderley Junior at Oktagon 66, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dangerous finishers in the division. In fact, Eskijew has stopped 7 of his last 8 opponents inside the distance, proving his ability to close the show early.
On the other side, Shem Rock (11-1-1) has quickly become a fan favorite in Oktagon, showcasing his elite submission skills. The Liverpool-born fighter has racked up three consecutive first-round rear-naked choke finishes, submitting Jan Malach, Stefano Catacoli, and Jaroslav Pokorny with ease. With an incredible 10 out of his 11 professional wins coming by first-round submission, Rock has made a name for himself as one of the most dangerous grapplers in European MMA.
Despite likely being the villain in Munich, Rock thrives in hostile environments. He silenced a massive Czech crowd at Oktagon 69, where he submitted Pokorny in his own backyard. That experience will no doubt prepare him for the German crowd when he faces Eskijew on May 17.
The Oktagon 71 card also features a highly anticipated rematch between light heavyweight contenders Alexander Poppeck (17-5) and Pavol Langer (13-11). Langer won their first meeting via decision at Oktagon 44, and Poppeck will be looking for revenge in their second encounter.
With high-stakes fights stacked across the card, Oktagon 71 is shaping up to be one of the biggest European MMA events of the year. Will Eskijew continue his finishing streak, or will Rock submit another top contender? Fans won’t want to miss this one!
