Asu Almabayev vs Matheus Nicolau — Fight recap

Asu Almabayev defeated Matheus Nicolau by unanimous decision over three rounds on October 19, 2024, in a flyweight matchup that saw the Kazakh fighter control the pace throughout. Almabayev landed 22 significant strikes at 40% accuracy while securing one knockdown and 5:17 of control time, though he struggled with takedown efficiency, converting just one of six attempts.

Nicolau managed 16 significant strikes at 38% accuracy but failed to establish any control time and went 0-for-1 on his lone takedown attempt, also recording one submission bid that never materialized. The striking volume favored Almabayev marginally, and his ability to score the knockdown and dictate positioning proved decisive across the scorecards under referee Keith Peterson.

This victory positions Almabayev as a viable contender in the flyweight rankings while Nicolau faces questions about his competitive level at 125 pounds.