Martin Buday puts UFC chapter to bed in pursuit of OKTAGON heavyweight title

Martin Buday discusses UFC release and expectations heading into major OKTAGON debut

"My perspective on what's happened is mostly because of my not [very] attractive fighting style, and too many decisions," Buday reflected. "I think that is the main thing, that was the reason for not re-signing with the UFC.

"So I think [too many] decisions and the demand to finish [that] I couldn't deliver them. That was the reason."

It didn't take long for surging European MMA promotion OKTAGON to sweep Buday up. Just days later they announced that he'd be fighting for their heavyweight title against reigning double-champion Will Fleury this October.

Buday already cut his teeth in OKMMA, racking up a 5-0 record before joining the Contender Series in 2021.

Buday isn't underestimating OKTAGON's double-champ

Fleury is no pushover, the Irishman is undefeated in OKMMA, becoming a two-division champion by dominating Lazar Todev in March. With endless pace and a dogged fighting style, he's a tough matchup for any heavyweight, but Buday is wise to his opponent's strengths.

"Will Fleury is known for his pressure game," Buday explained. "He has good footwork and explosiveness. So I think that would be the biggest challenge that he brings in OKTAGON."

"My mindset for my debut in OKTAGON is like every fight I've had before," Buday said. "So I want a big win. I want to secure the heavyweight belt, and I want to prove that I am a UFC level fighter.

"... First of all, I love the UFC. I don't keep any bad words about them or any bad stuff. I am grateful for the opportunity they gave me in the early years of my career. But now I am focusing on my path and building my legacy in OKTAGON. I believe I will do big things together with OKTAGON. Big fights, big events. I am looking forward to it."

Buday's next fight is targeted for November at OKTAGON 77. He'll have the tall task of handing Fleury his first professional loss since 2020.

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