Dante Leon and Kenta Iwamoto delivered one of the most exciting welterweight submission grappling matches in ONE Fight Night 42.
The matchup was a highly anticipated rematch. The two previously met in the 2023 AIGA Champions League, where Leon secured a submission victory via armbar.
This time around, both athletes entered as more complete grapplers – and it showed.
Iwamoto came in with a clear and disciplined strategy.
Early in the match, he focused on maintaining heavy top pressure, aiming to control Leon’s movement while shutting down his dangerous leg lock game.
For a stretch, the approach worked. Leon was forced to operate off his back, unable to generate meaningful offense.
However, while Iwamoto controlled position, he struggled to create real danger.
Leon remained composed throughout, defending every passing attempt and gradually building momentum as the match progressed.
As the pace shifted, he began to find openings and impose his own game.
Eventually, Leon executed a sweep – marking a turning point in the match. From there, he immediately transitioned into offense, first attacking the legs.
Iwamoto’s defense held strong, but the shift in momentum was clear.
Recognizing the need to change tactics, Leon moved to a triangle choke attempt late in the match.
He locked it in tightly, forcing a decisive moment that ultimately secured him the win on the judges’ scorecards – just seconds before the final bell.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
