By Liam Josh

The impressive debut show of South Sudanese Mixed Martial fighter, Alhassan Mosala, at the Russian arena has come to an end, after a hard-fought session that saw him win his initial fights, losing in the finals- at the Kanty-Mansyisky.

Russia’s Murad Abdulatipov knew he got a real challenger in Alhassan; the African fighter who never lost hope despite making his first entrance to the tournament with two back-to-back wins. Murad’s plan, apparently, was to hold the fight for long enough to have a final decision from the judges.

The tension of the finals was palpable from the moment Alhassan and his opponent entered the Arena, in complete positivity of sportsmanship, but Alhasan carried himself as a true professional.

Here were two almost compatible athletes, who underwent the same trajectory and the mindset, to win through ‘blood, sweat and tears’ to reach to the stage where they did.

In the fighting world, this is akin to the expression “Now it’s all about who wants it the most”.

After the introductory announcement of the two fighters, the stage was set for who would have his way.

The fight went on for three full rounds, marked by serious contest from the two fighters.  

Murad Abdulatipov underestimating Alhassan’s demeanor saw the first round awarded to Alhassan, which made the opponent double his effort in the second round.

The fight was so technically composed that a standing ovation was given after every single round.

In the third and final round, both fighters were fatigued. The two fighters gave it their all, but the star was not on Alhassan’s side when the judges delivered their final verdict.

The fight resulted into a split decision (10-9) score in favor of Murad Abdulatipov.

Commenting on the loss, Alhassan’s coach, Lofogo said:

” We were of course devastated by the outcome because this could have been a historical moment in the history of sports in South Sudan.”

“Alhassan’s all-in- all performance throughout was a showcase of character, determination and most importantly professionalism. He is a force to be reckoned. I have lost but I have not been beaten,” he said.

Team South Sudanese coach expressed his appreciation for everyone that made this possible.

“Alhassan and I want to thank the MMA World Federation and everyone else who made this possible for us to showcase the resilient talent that South Sudan has to offer. We would also want to thank The City Review for doing all that was necessary, you are truly the voice of the people,” Lofogo said.