Ruslan Arslangereev Aims for Knockout Debut Against Bismarck Gomes at ONE Friday Fights 108
Turkish fighter Ruslan Arslangereev is set to make his highly anticipated debut at ONE Friday Fights 108, and he’s not pulling any punches. The 26-year-old newcomer has made it clear: he’s coming for a knockout victory over Brazil’s Bismarck Gomes, a BJJ specialist with a perfect record in ONE Championship.
Gomes, who earned an impressive first-round submission win in his debut, is known for his grappling prowess. But ahead of their MMA clash inside Bangkok’s iconic Lumpinee Stadium,Arslangereev is unfazed. “He hasn’t made a lasting impression,” the rising star said confidently. “It seems that his striking technique could be improved.”
From Buynaksk to the Big Stage
Born in Buynaksk, Dagestan, Arslangereev grew up surrounded by a culture deeply rooted in combat sports. “My childhood was spent in Dagestan, and I always had a good relationship with my parents,” he shared. His mother worked as a translator between Russian and Turkish, while his father and older brother were both involved in freestyle wrestling.
Arslangereev began his martial arts journey at just six years old with karate before switching to wrestling, which he practiced for over a decade in both Dagestan and Turkey. “Wrestling is popular in both countries, but the level in Dagestan is significantly higher due to deep traditions and a strong school,” he noted.
Arslangereev credits his wrestling background for laying the groundwork for his transition to MMA at age 22. His background in boxing also gave him a head start in striking, an area where he believes he holds a clear edge over Gomes.
Ready for Spotlight
Signing with ONE Championship marked a turning point for Arslangereev. “When I found out that I would be fighting in ONE Championship, I was pleasantly surprised — it’s an important step in my career,” he said. Now, he’s laser-focused on making a statement in his debut.
Since switching to MMA, the 26-year-old has amassed an overall professional record of 3-0 – a clean record that he hopes to improve further this Friday.
Defeating his opponent, Gomes, will not be an easy task. The Brazilian earned a quick submission win in his first appearance and has built a reputation for dangerous ground skills.
Still, Arslangereev remains confident in his preparation and stylistic advantage. “I feel that my style is a good match against him, so I feel confident during my camp.”
While Arslangereev is respectful, he’s clearly not impressed. “The best way to assess an opponent is in the fight, but I haven’t heard anything significant about him yet,” he said, brushing off the hype surrounding Gomes’ debut performance.
Eyes on the Knockout
When asked about his game plan, Arslangereev kept it short and strategic: “We’ll see in the ring.” But when it comes to the outcome, he’s decisive. “I plan to win, no matter how,” he declared — before adding, “A knockout,” when asked what the ideal ending would be.
And he’s aiming to finish fast. “Without a doubt,” he said, when asked if he’s hunting for a quick finish and a performance bonus.
Looking beyond his debut, Arslangereev has one long-term goal in mind: “To win a world title at ONE Championship.”
Arslangereev and Gomes are set to face each other in a welterweight MMA bout at ONE Friday Fights 108 which kicks off at 3:30 PM Mecca this Friday, May 16.
