A massive lightweight clash has been booked for OKTAGON 77 in Bratislava, featuring two of the most seasoned names on the European MMA scene.
On Saturday, October 4, Tipos Arena will host an intriguing showdown between veteran Ivan Buchinger (45-10) and Ireland’s Richie Smullen (15-3-1) in a matchup that could have major implications in the 155-pound division.
The 39-year-old Buchinger has put together a long and decorated career, capturing titles under both the Cage Warriors and M-1 banners before becoming OKTAGON’s first-ever double champion. Far from slowing down, “Buki” has shown he still has plenty left in the tank, finishing Hafeni Nafuka and Vladimir Lengál in his last two outings. Now, he’ll look to add Smullen’s name to that list with a statement win on home soil.
Smullen has proven himself at a high level, too. Known as “The Fighting Pride of Arklow,” the Irish standout first appeared on Season 27 of The Ultimate Fighter before compiling a 4-2 record during his run with Bellator from 2019 to 2023. He now enters Bratislava riding an impressive five-fight winning streak, with every victory coming by stoppage — including a statement-making TKO over Vojto Barborik in his OKTAGON debut this past June.
With the OKTAGON lightweight title now vacant following Losene Keita’s move to the UFC, this October 4 showdown represents a golden opportunity for both Smullen and Buchinger to prove they’re worthy of the next shot at championship gold.
Both €1 million Tipsport Gamechanger semifinals will take place on the lineup at OKTAGON 77 as Kerim Engizek faces Dominik Humburger and Krzysztof Jotko locks horns with Hojat Khajevand. Furthermore, 'Pirát' Krištofič collides with Jaime Cordero in a tournament reserve contest and Vlasto Čepo throws down with Daniel Schwindt, also at middleweight. More bouts for the card will be announced over the coming weeks.
