Nedoh became champion after five rounds, while Kexel claimed the belt with a knockout

Another top-tier fight night delivered by Fight Nation Championship is behind us. The crowd in Ljubljana’s Arena Stožice, as well as those watching from home, enjoyed 10 high-level MMA bouts and one ultimate kickboxing clash. The evening concluded with two title fights, both resulting in new champions. Jakob Nedoh became the new light heavyweight champion after a dominant five-round performance against Matej Batinić, while Eduard Kexel dethroned Ivan Sičaja with a spectacular second-round knockout to claim the featherweight belt.

The main event was the most compelling fight of the night, featuring 25 minutes of high-level action. Nedoh delivered perhaps his most mature performance to date, neutralizing Batinić and landing effectively with his rear hand, ultimately earning a split decision victory over the Cro Cop protégé. Zagreb ATT fighter “Tirke” Sičaja failed to retain his title, as Kexel delivered an excellent performance and deservedly captured the belt.

Around 200 Green Dragons came to support one of their own, regional legend Bojan '“Želva' Kosednar, but he was unable to make them celebrate against another veteran of the scene. Dušan Džakić secured a kimura finish after just a minute and a half of the first round. A striking war unfolded in the welterweight bout between Andrija Stanković and Antonio Budimir, with the Serbian fighter landing devastating low kicks. Budimir responded well with his hands, but after 15 minutes, the judges awarded the victory to Stanković.

The home crowd hoped Rok Krušič would take a big step toward a bantamweight title shot with a win over Bartosz Wojcikiewicz, but “Hoki” lost early in the third round. The Polish fighter, based in Sweden, damaged his leg and finished the fight on the ground. Michal Andryszak also returned to winning ways, defeating Valdrin Istrefi midway through the first round with ground strikes.

Tomislav Sičaja delivered an excellent performance, arguably his best to date. He knocked out Arkadiusz Palkowski late in the second round and propelled himself into the top of the division. Bartłomiej Gladkowicz also impressed in his debut, submitting top light heavyweight contender Andres Ramos early in the second round.

The main card was opened by Denis 'Chorchyp' Porčić in his farewell fight, but he was unable to end it with a victory. He suffered a leg injury in the second round and was forced to submit to Jivko Stoimenov. The prelims were opened by Vuk Lekić and Sašo Klinc, with the Serbian fighter winning by split decision. The biggest ovation of the night went to showman Aleksandr Drabinca, who entered the cage dressed as a ninja and, despite a point deduction, defeated Milan Kadlec over three rounds to secure his fourth professional win.

The curtain has fallen on Ljubljana, but FNC fans won’t have to wait long for more excitement. FNC 30 powered by Supersport is set for Zadar in a month’s time, on Saturday, May 9.