Mark Hulme Scores Devastating First-Round Counter in Oktagon Debut
South African middleweight standout Mark Hulme made a statement in his Oktagon MMA debut, securing a spectacular first-round submission victory over former UFC fighter Andreas Michailidis. Hulme’s win not only marked his first win at Oktagon but also earned him a spot in the quarter-finals of the Oktagon Middleweight Grand Prix.
🤯 HULME HAS ARRIVED!
— OKTAGON MMA (@OktagonOfficial) February 22, 2025
Mark Hulme 🇿🇦 blasts through Andreas Michailidis to advance in the €1 million Tipsport Gamechanger middleweight tournament #OKTAGON67
đź“ş https://t.co/TVP7NaDRbZ & RTL+ pic.twitter.com/q8imdTW9mS
A Perfectly Timed Counter
From the opening bell, Mark Hulme looked composed and calculated, aware of Michailidis’ experience and aggressive style. The Greek fighter attempted to dictate the pace early, throwing a heavy kick to the body in an effort to wear down Hulme. However, it was that very kick that led to his downfall. As Michailidis stepped in for the body kick, Mark Hulme reacted with perfect precision, unleashing a massive left hook that landed cleanly on the chin.
The impact sent Michailidis crashing to the canvas, and Hulme wasted no time capitalizing on the opportunity. With relentless ground-and-pound, he sealed the finish, securing a Guillotine Choke forcing his opponent to tap. The dominant performance sent a clear message to the rest of the division—Hulme is a serious contender in the Grand Prix.
A Career-Defining Moment
For Hulme, this victory was more than just a successful debut—it was a validation of his journey. Training at C.I.T Performance Institute in Pretoria alongside UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis, he has long been regarded as one of South Africa’s top prospects. Despite his previous accolades, including an EFC Welterweight Championship reign and an appearance on The Ultimate Fighter, he had never made such quick work of such a noteworthy opponent.
The performance showcased his evolving skill set and ability to finish high-level opponents. His striking, timing, and killer instinct were on full display, proving that he belongs among the elite in the middleweight division.
What’s Next for Mark Hulme?
With this emphatic win, Hulme advances to the quarter-finals of the Oktagon Middleweight Grand Prix, bringing him one step closer to a title shot. The tournament format means he will face increasingly tougher competition, but if his debut was any indication, he is more than ready for the challenge.
The finish also boosts his stock significantly in the international MMA scene. With major promotions like the UFC and PFL always on the lookout for dominant finishers, a strong run in Oktagon could open doors to even bigger opportunities.
A Defining Performance
Mark Hulme’s debut in Oktagon MMA could not have gone any better. A first-round submission over a seasoned opponent like Andreas Michailidis is no small feat, and the fashion in which he did it—with perfect timing, precision, and ruthless follow-up—sets the tone for his future in the promotion.
As he continues his march toward championship gold, one thing is certain: Mark Hulme has arrived on the international stage, and the world is starting to take notice.
