The Oktagon 66 MMA event unfolded with high anticipation on February 1, 2025, at the PSD Bank Dome in Düsseldorf, where local hero Kerim Engizek triumphed over Polish fighter Kamil Oniszczuk. The event generated considerable excitement as it marked the start of the European MMA Champions League's middleweight division. Enthusiastic fans filled the arena, with nearly 14,000 attending to witness this lively showdown.
Engizek, hailing from Düsseldorf and fighting under the Turkish flag, has built a formidable career and entered the octagon with an unblemished record over the last nine years. The headlining match against Oniszczuk was particularly esteemed, considering Engizek's significant win at Oktagon 62 against Patrik Kincl, which had been touted as the largest MMA event to date. The spotlight of the evening was clearly on this explosive rematch, with viewers eager to see who would emerge victorious.
Beginning at 18:00, the event showcased several exciting matches, including the anticipated fight between Engizek and Oniszczuk. While the crowd expected a definitive knockout victory, Engizek secured his win by decision after dominating the bout across three rounds. "He was a tough guy and had hard fists. I didn't think he would be like this," Engizek stated following his victory, attesting to the resilience of Oniszczuk. This self-assured fighter attributed his success to extensive preparation and bravery, especially considering he had battled illness the week leading up to the event.
This MMA battle saw Engizek expressing gratitude for the support of his family and fans. "I had everything to lose, you don't know the pressure I was under," he remarked. Engizek’s self-awareness and humble attitude concerning the stakes reflected his competitive spirit, even as he acknowledged the challenges presented by his opponent.
Beyond the main event, Oktagon 66 hosted several notable fights, including exciting clashes like Matěj Peňáz against David Zawada and the return of veteran fighters like Lom-Ali Eskiev facing Wanderley Junior. Zawada's experience, having previously trained at high levels, added depth to the card. All fights were streamed live exclusively on RTL+, which required viewers to have a paid subscription, marking another significant shift for MMA viewership.
Alongside the electrifying atmosphere, the event featured fighters like Tamerlan Dulatov and Solaja brothers, Zoran and Daniel, who each enjoyed victories, with Dulatov dedicaying his win to those who supported him through his career. “I dedicate the victory to my family and all my loved ones,” he expressed passionately.
The match card was comprehensive, capturing attention with thrilling bouts across various weight classes, tantalizingly arranged to create engaging and varied viewing. Fans could also access additional sports on RTL+, including live NFL matches and F1 races, offered with discounts on the premium subscription, enhancing value for sports enthusiasts.
Interestingly, Danielle Misteli, the oldest fighter on the card at 48 years old, managed to pull off an impressive victory against Sara Smajić. Following her win, she shared her determination and passion for the sport, underlining the vibrant MMA community's inclusivity and excitement.
Looking forward, fans anticipate more electrifying fight nights like Oktagon 66. The organizers and fighters left the audience wanting more, promising to keep MMA as the center of sports entertainment. Engizek's performance may well raise his profile even more significantly within the MMA community, as he continues to train and seek greater challenges on the global stage.
With the successful execution of Oktagon 66, the Düsseldorf MMA aspirations are clearly reaffirmed. Observers await the scheduled matchups and prospects for these rising stars, and local fighting fans are eager to share their enthusiasm for this exceptional sport as it continues to develop.