Christian Lee Credits ONE Rules After Finishing Rasulov With Ground Knees

Christian Lee delivered a masterclass performance in his ONE Lightweight MMA World Title defense, stopping Alibeg Rasulov via second-round TKO at ONE 173 on November 16 in a rematch that left no doubt about the champion's superiority.

The two-division ruler emphatically settled their unfinished business at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan, needing only 2:32 of the second round to dismantle the previously undefeated Turkish challenger.

In the post-event press conference, Lee highlighted how ONE Championship's unique rule set enabled him to showcase the full spectrum of his mixed martial arts abilities.

"I love the ONE Championship rule set. I think that knees to a grounded opponent is MMA in the purest sense. The sport was designed to figure out who the best fighter in the world is across any discipline," the 27-year-old said.

The Singaporean-American fighter believes ONE's Global MMA Rule Set represents the truest form of combat sports competition.

"And I believe with mixed martial arts, you're able to prove that you're the best fighter in the world. And with the martial arts, with the ONE Championship rule set, it allows me to put that on perfectly, so I'm very grateful for it," Lee added.

The champion stuffed multiple takedown attempts while systematically breaking down his opponent with precise leg kicks and punches in the opening round.

The decisive moment arrived in round two when Rasulov shot for another takedown.

Lee demonstrated his elite grappling by sprawling immediately, locking in a tight D'Arce choke before unleashing a devastating series of grounded knees that prompted the referee's intervention.

Now, with both the ONE Lightweight and Welterweight MMA World Titles in his possession, Lee revealed his intentions for the future.

"I'm staying active in both divisions. And once I get word on who the clear contender is, then I'll be getting ready for that division. I do have my eyes set on the welterweight division, and right now I'll be waiting on who the next opponent is," he said.