Russian teen Denis Mayorov was declared Best MMA Fighter after locking up a second round submission win over Radzhoboli Buryah in the ‘Guts & Glory’ Amateur Tournament organised by Glory MMA & Fitness Centre.

Both fighters displayed notable firepower and engaged each other furiously in the opening seconds of their three-round fight.

But 17-year old Mayorov, who is only on his second fight as an amateur, showed more intensity and exhibited his grappling abilities to overwhelm Buryah into submission in the second round.

Sergey Tsyrulnikov, one of Mayorov’s trainers at Glory MMA & Fitness Centre, was impressed with his ward’s dedication and discipline.

“A couple of months ago, Mayorov was 10 kilos heavier. But with proper training and strict regimen, he has become a good fighter,” said Tsyrulnikov.

Emirati boxer Khalid Bucheeri also exhibited his firepower and was declared Best Fighter in a separate boxing tournament.

Bucheeri fought in the 55-60kg division and won on points over Afipov Johongir. In the K-1 category, Colombian teen Cristian Rodrigues scored a stunning second round KO victory over Abdolla Shaoban.

Rodrigues used his precise kicks and powerful jabs to knockout his opponent.

He was adjudged the best among the amateur fighters in K-1. The ‘Guts & Glory’ Amateur Tournament on Friday saw 25 fighters take to the ring, with notable participation from young Emiratis.

Glory MMA & Fitness Centre managing partner Nahyan Al Amri said: “The amateur tournament was a big success and it shows that combat sports has grown in popularity in the UAE.

“We had a capacity crowd at the event and we are planning to hold more amateur tournaments to encourage more youth to engage in sports and live a healthy lifestyle."