On December 14, the KINTEX Exhibition Center in Goyang, South Korea, became the arena for the second installment of the Z-Fight Night (ZFN 02) mixed martial arts event, organized by the legendary fighter Jung Chan-sung, known as the Korean Zombie. This event marked the triumphant return of Hwang Insu, who emerged victorious against Kim Han-seul, confirming his prowess on the mat after more than three years away from competitive fighting.
The main event showcased Hwang, recognized as the reigning Road FC middleweight champion, battling it out with the skilled Kim Han-seul. Spectators engaged with bated breath as the two fighters exchanged blows through three intense rounds. The fight concluded with Hwang winning by decision with scores of 29-28, 28-29, and 29-28.
This victory was particularly significant for Hwang, as it not only added to his professional record—now standing at 8 wins and 1 loss—but also marked his first decision win after solely triumphing by knockout (KO) previously. Meanwhile, Kim’s record shifted to 13 wins and 8 losses, reflecting the competitiveness of the fight. Although Hwang was favored leading up to the match, Kim’s determination continuously challenged the expectations placed on both fighters.
Right from the onset, the bout was electrifying. Kim started strong, utilizing his reach advantage and executing effective calf kicks to keep Hwang at bay. Yet, as the rounds progressed, Hwang demonstrated resilience and tactical prowess. Notably, he adapted his game plan, incorporating powerful counter punches and effective strikes to break through Kim’s defenses.
Round one featured both fighters trying to gauge each other's strengths. Hwang, who is approximately 187 cm tall, pressed forward, which allowed Kim to use his speed advantage momentarily. Despite Kim landing significant strikes, Hwang’s ability to stay composed made it clear he was not about to be overwhelmed.
Then came round two, where the tide began to turn. After briefly being halted due to an accidental foul by Kim, Hwang returned sharply, landing several decisive kicks and punches. This change shifted the momentum, showcasing Hwang’s adaptability and hunger after such a long hiatus from the cage.
By the third round, Hwang's pressure tactics began to pay off, landing clean strikes to Kim, whose defenses were visibly wearing down under the weight of Hwang's relentless attacks. The audience erupted as the fighters exchanged blows with passionate intensity, underscoring the heart of mixed martial arts—stamina, skill, and determination.
Commenting on the match, Hwang said, “To fight under the aura of the UFC and to have Dana White watching us, it pushes me to train harder and aim for the UFC with this victory.” His aspirations to join the ranks of the UFC, particularly having White present during this fight, swirled excitement around the local MMA scene as each fighter aims to prove their worth.
ZFN, named after its vision to represent the epitome of Korean MMA, sold out all its 5,000 seats, reflecting the growing interest and support for the sport within the country. Following ZFN 01 earlier this year, the successful completion of ZFN 02 has strengthened the event’s status as a pivotal point for developing MMA talent.
Aside from the Hwang and Kim fight, ZFN 02 also featured other gripping matches, including intense bouts such as Yun Chang-min versus Park Chan-soo, which ended in a rare draw after three dynamic rounds. This shows the caliber of fighters participating, all aiming for recognition and opportunities on broader stages.
Indeed, the charismatic presence of Jung Chan-sung, who dreams of eleviating Korea’s standing within the global MMA arena, has reinvigorated the sport domestically. At the post-fight interview, he expressed his pride and commitment to ensuring MMA evolves here.
“With each event, we are not just creating fights; we are nurturing the future of MMA. Finding homegrown talent and preparing them to compete globally is our prerogative,” Jung remarked.
With growing media attention, including Dana White’s attendance and potential scouting, players like Hwang Insu are not merely aiming for titles but embarking on journeys to become the faces of Korea’s fighting spirit. The success of ZFN 02 is but the beginning, as the local fighter scene prepares for even greater challenges and perhaps, new stars on the global front.
The energetic atmosphere reflected not just the fights but the dreams of the fans and fighters present. Whether it was the cheers for the mighty Hwang or the determination of Kim, it was evident—Korean MMA is here to stay and flourish.
