Dzhabar Askerov Wins Kickboxing World Grand Prix Thriller

Dzhabar “Genghis Khan” Askerov completed a hat trick of wins over Enriko “The Hurricane” Kehl to become the first athlete to advance to the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix semifinals.

The two European strikers met in the tournament’s first quarterfinal match-up at ONE: ENTER THE DRAGON on Friday, 17 May.

After three rounds of explosive action, Askerov’s heavier strikes helped him soar to a unanimous decision victory.

Askerov already had two victories over Kehl on his record, and the Australian-based Russian was determined to finish their trilogy in style at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.

The first round saw Kehl — a German K-1 World Champion — looking to connect with slick combinations, as he utilized his superior speed to get his shots off.

Meanwhile, Askerov — a two-time Russian Challenge and TNA Kickboxing World Champion — sat down on his punches and threw with power.

After a strong opening round by “Genghis Khan,” the 27-year-old German stormed back in the second stanza and used his shots to the body to great effect.

However, a huge blow from Askerov left “The Hurricane” on wobbly legs. Before the Russian could capitalize on his vulnerable foe, the bell rang to close out the second round.

In the third and final period, the 33-year-old turned to his full striking arsenal. He unleashed two “rolling thunder” heel kicks and a series of spinning backfists in an effort to claim a third-round stoppage victory.

To his huge credit, and despite being rocked for the second time in successive rounds, Kehl managed to survive the Russian’s onslaught as the bout went to the scorecards.

The three judges at ringside all saw the contest similarly, and awarded the unanimous decision to Askerov.

With the victory, “Genghis Khan” earned the 108th win of his combined Muay Thai and kickboxing career. Also, he secured a spot in the final four of the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix.