Senegal’s MMA Champion Oumar “Reug Reug” Kane Postpones Title Defense following Car Accident
Oumar “Reug Reug” Kane, ONE MMA heavyweight world champion, will be unable to compete in his scheduled rematch against Anatoly Malykhin on November 16 at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Blackened in Tokyo. The postponement is due to injuries sustained in a car accident in the United Arab Emirates. This delays Kane’s first defense of the heavyweight title he won in November 2023.
The accident necessitates an extended period of rest for the 33-year-old Senegalese wrestler, according to medical advice. The highly anticipated bout against Malykhin, who also holds the ONE light heavyweight championship, was a centerpiece of the ONE 173 event. ONE Championship organizers are exploring options to reschedule the fight once Kane recovers,potentially aiming for inclusion in the 2026 sporting calendar.
Kane’s victory over malykhin at ONE championship 169 in November 2023 marked a historic moment, making him the first Senegalese heavyweight champion in a major MMA association.He secured the win by majority decision, showcasing a strategic approach and powerful striking.
This achievement has significantly boosted the profile of mixed martial arts in Senegal. Kane’s transition from conventional Senegalese wrestling to MMA has inspired a new generation of African athletes and contributed to the growing professionalization of the sport within the country, supported by the Senegalese MMA Federation and the emergence of local training academies.
Senegalese fans, both at home and within the diaspora, are closely monitoring Kane’s recovery and eagerly await his return to the ring, where he is expected to defend his title – potentially against Malykhin or another top contender – and continue representing Senegal on the global MMA stage.
