The mixed martial arts promotion Absolute Championship Akhmat (ACA) held its 203rd numbered event, ACA 203, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on May 8. The fight card featured a series of competitive matchups across multiple weight classes, with outcomes decided by a mix of unanimous decisions, split decisions, and submission finishes.
In the main event, Arsen Akopyan secured a dominant victory over Azam Gaforov. The judges' scorecards reflected Akopyan's control, awarding him a unanimous decision with scores of 49-46, 49-46, and a near-perfect 50-45. This win marks a significant statement in his division.
The co-main event saw Faridun Odilov also claim a unanimous decision win against Dauren Ermekov. The bout was closely contested, with two judges scoring it 30-27 in Odilov's favor, while the third saw it slightly closer at 29-28.
Several fighters earned their victories before the final bell. Firdavs Zaripov submitted Kholmurod Nurmatov with a choke in the second round at the 2:14 mark. Edil Esengulov also found a submission finish, locking in a choke on Ibrahim Magomedov in the third round with 3:41 elapsed. The quickest finish of the night belonged to Ali Abdulkhalikov, who knocked out Amir Elzhurkaev in just 2:58 of the opening round.
Zumso Zuraev started his night strong, submitting Klidson Abreu via choke in the first round at 3:40. Later on the card, Mehdi Dakaev secured a second-round submission victory over Nikita Podkovalnikov at 3:12, and Khasan Dadalov also won by choke in the second round against Kazakbay Tilnov at 4:17.
The decision victories were numerous and often closely fought. Alikhan Musaev earned a unanimous nod over Furkat Komilov, while Nemat Abdurashitov did the same against Apti Bimarzaev in a bout where all three judges scored it 29-28. Mahdi Orzuzoda defeated Anvar Abdullaev unanimously, with two scores of 30-27.
Other notable decision wins included Sharif Kushaev over Ali Alkaisi, Shamil Boraev over Shergazi Kenzhebaev, and Oyatullo Muminov over Azat Kochorov, all by unanimous decision. The card also featured two split decisions: Tagir Magomedov edged out Alexei Kunchenko, and Mehrach Mammadshoev got the nod over Jaddala Alibekov.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.