BRAVE CF 89 took Spanish MMA fans by storm, making history as the first-ever MMA world title fight on Spanish soil. While the highly anticipated main event attracted attention in the lead-up to the event, it was an undercard bout between Anuar Bensayid vs Sino Sabzaliev that stole the show, emerging as a potential "Fight of the Year" contender.
Anuar Bensayid, returning to BRAVE Combat Federation after a spectacular first-round stoppage at BRAVE CF 75, entered the cage with something to prove. With a loss and a draw in his last two fights, the pressure was on for him to secure a win and reestablish himself as a force in the organization. On the opposite side, Tajikistani Sambo Champion Sino Sabzaliev stepped into the BRAVE CF cage for the first time, riding high after a first-round finish in his previous bout. His goal was clear: to make a lasting impression on the global MMA scene in his promotional debut.
The fight kicked off with Bensayid showcasing his superior striking, while Sabzaliev, as expected, dominated on the ground. But it was in the second round where the action truly ignited, delivering one of the most intense rounds in BRAVE CF history. Both fighters threw caution to the wind, engaging in a relentless back-and-forth, with Sabzaliev proving he could go toe-to-toe with Bensayid’s elite striking despite his grappling pedigree. The crowd roared as neither fighter backed down, creating an unforgettable spectacle.
Bensayid's persistent leg kicks began to take their toll on Sabzaliev, and in the third round, Bensayid’s determination paid off, securing a TKO victory and snapping his two-fight winless streak. The fight, initially flying under the radar, became the night’s standout moment, overshadowing the big-name bouts on the card.
Although Sabzaliev tasted defeat, he earned the respect of the Spanish crowd with his gritty performance. As for Bensayid, his thrilling victory has fans eagerly waiting to see what's next in his BRAVE CF journey. After such a high-octane bout, the future is bright for both fighters, making them two names to watch in the global MMA scene.