Reece McLaren Survives Big Knockdown, Submits Xie Wei In First Round

Reece “Lightning” McLaren might be proud of his improved striking under the tutelage of Muay Thai legend John Wayne Parr, but the Australian quickly reminded everyone that he’s still most dangerous on the ground. 

The #5-ranked flyweight contender brushed off an early scare before mounting a comeback and submitting “The Hunter” Xie Wei in their MMA bout at ONE 158: Tawanchai vs. Larsen on Friday, 3 June.

The finish came at the 3:42 mark of round one, as the former World Title challenger locked in a rear-naked choke that forced the Chinese star to tap and snapped his three-fight winning streak. 

However, the contest did not begin ideally for McLaren.

The 30-year-old looked to showcase his more refined striking against the dangerous Xie, as he was aggressive with his boxing while actively looking for head kicks. 

That strategy quickly backfired, though, as the Chinese knockout artist flattened McLaren with a booming overhand right.

Xie tried to pounce, but despite hitting the canvas, “Lightning” was quick to recover.

The Australian immediately regained his feet and clinched up with his opponent before landing a beautiful double-leg takedown moments later. 

And once the fight hit the ground, it was all McLaren. He quickly got the mount and then took “The Hunter’s” back when he tried to explode out of that precarious position. 

Xie tried to fight it off by standing up, but McLaren was persistent and continued to look for the choke. He was rewarded just seconds later, as the Chinese athlete fell back to the ground and had no choice but to tap. 

The win was “Lightning’s” third in his last four bouts, and he looked to the past when questioned about his future, asking for a chance at redemption against #4 contender and Team Lakay standout Danny “The King” Kingad. 

“The August card looks amazing. I’m gonna look to the mountains for my next opponent,” McLaren said. “I think I deserve a rematch with Mr. Danny himself.”

Read more: ONE 158: Tawanchai Vs. Larsen – Results And Highlights For Every Fight