Japanese MMA legend Shinya Aoki had to pivot on a moment’s notice to fight John Lineker at ONE 165 instead of Sage Northcutt.
The swith from Northcutt to Lineker is large, as Northcutt is a large welterweight while Lineker weighed in at 151 pounds in his surprise appearance at weigh-ins. However they both are athletic, heavy-hitters who are much younger than the 40-year-old Aoki. His grappling-focused approach would be the same regardless, though Lineker has reached high points in this sport, including being a champion in ONE Championship. The size could be especially telling with that approach, and in the end it indeed was, as Aoki used his strength and grappling to dominate his foe.
Aoki shot for a double leg early on and made clear that his size advantage would matter, dragging Lineker down to the mat. Lineker tried to wrestle up but Aoki snatched a tight d’Arce choke. He stepped over into mount while trying to finish with it, so when he failed the choke he had gained the position. Shinya pounded away against a nearly helpless Lineker until the Brazilian gave up his back. Aoki took the opportunity and locked up a rear-naked choke as Lineker tried to stand up, only to tap the moment he got fully to his feet.
It was a feel good moment for fans abroad, but especially in Japan, where Aoki is most beloved. He was visibly emotional in his post-fight interview, and was grateful to recieve one of the $50,000 bonuses for his finish.
Official Result: Shinya Aoki def. John Lineker by Submission (rear-naked choke) Round 1, 3:00
