5 Reasons Why Fabricio Andrade Could Be The Next Big Thing At Bantamweight
Fabricio Andrade has all the makings of a future superstar in ONE’s bantamweight MMA ranks.
The #2-ranked contender is undefeated in the organization, has produced numerous highlight-reel moments, and has called out reigning divisional king John Lineker on numerous occasions.
Whether he gets the next World Title shot is uncertain, but it’s clear the confident Brazilian believes the sky is the limit.
For now, here are five reasons why Andrade could be the next big thing at bantamweight.
#1 His Striking Is Truly World Class
Andrade started his martial arts journey with Muay Thai at the age of 13 and compiled a 40-3 record in striking-only fights.
He then brought those skills to ONE, blending them perfectly into his mixed martial arts game while compiling a flawless 5-0 slate.
The Brazilian throws accurate punches, hard kicks, and liver-busting knees. Combined with his impeccable timing, “Wonder Boy’s” opponents often fall under a hail of fire when they try to engage in a stand-up battle.
In fact, he’s already taken out some of the bantamweight division’s leading strikers – including Kwon Won Il, Jeremy Pacatiw, and Li Kai Wen – so he’s not just employing his offense against lower-tier competition.
While Lineker is atop the mountain and a dangerous puncher in his own right, nobody has come close to troubling Andrade in the toe-to-toe exchanges so far.
#2 He Has Weapons In All Areas
Although he’s known for his striking, Andrade is well-equipped in all parts of MMA.
He’ll always look to get the job done on the feet, but “Wonder Boy” can just as easily showcase his wrestling and grappling if it’s required.
For instance, the 24-year-old shocked fans in his ONE debut by submitting Mark Abelardo shortly after taking the Kiwi’s back in a scramble.
Andrade also utilizes impressive takedown defense – stuffing 9 of 11 attempts from Shoko Sato en route to an impressive victory in January 2021 – and he capitalizes on sloppy shots with his punishing clinch game, leaving his rivals no respite.
#3 He’s A Finisher
Andrade is clinical when it comes to wrapping up a fight, no matter the method.
In eight career victories, the Fortaleza native has finished six, with four KOs and two submissions, including his current three-fight knockout streak in ONE.
He’s happy to use his footwork and move around before he explodes – but when he does, it’s decisive.
And if his hands land on the chin or his knees drive into the midsection, there’s a good chance that “Wonder Boy’s” opponents are not getting back up.
#4 He Has Tons Of Charisma
Though he was once a shy youngster, Andrade is now an outgoing and outspoken athlete who loves to be in the public eye.
“Wonder Boy” dies his hair fresh colors for every fight to make sure he’s the focus of attention, and he absolutely loves to play the showman.
He’s also not afraid to speak his mind when it comes to the other contenders in his division, and he’s entertaining with a camera rolling or a microphone in his hand.
#5 He’s Still Young And Only Getting Better
Already a scary adversary for any bantamweight, it’s even more frightening to realize the Brazilian sensation is constantly adding to his arsenal.
The 24-year-old trains alongside the likes of new ONE Featherweight World Champion Tang Kai, Chinese MMA star Xie Wei, and Muay Thai technician Amir Naseri at Tiger Muay Thai in Phuket, and those teammates are helping him add to his all-around skill set.
While “Wonder Boy’s” career didn’t get off to an ideal start, he’s now won seven fights in a row and looks more polished with every outing – a dangerous prospect for every rival in the weight class.
