By: Jerome Lagunzad
American fighter Ben Askren closed out his illustrious MMA career in style on Friday night when he stopped legendary Japanese counterpart Shinya Aoki in the first round to retain the ONE welterweight title inside the packed Singapore Indoor Stadium.
The 5-foot-10 Askren, 33, made sure he will go out on top as he took full advantage of his impressive striking skills, pounding Aoki with a barrage of solid punches that forced the referee to step in and call off the one-sided match in just 57 seconds.
“I think this is it,” said an emotional Askren, who remained spotless after 18 matches, underlining his billing as one of the most dominant welterweight fighters in the world.
“If I get the opportunity to prove I’m number one, then I’ll take the opportunity. I don’t need any more money. I just want to show the fans that I’m the best welterweight in the world. Other than that, I’m out.”