![[WATCH] Shinya Aoki Scores Fast (53s) Armbar Victory At ONE 172](https://www.bjjee.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Shinya-Aoki-Armbar-at-ONE-172.jpg)
Shinya Aoki reminded everyone why he’s one of Japan’s most iconic figures in MMA and submission grappling – with a lightning-fast victory at ONE 172, against longtime rival Eduard Folayang!
The history between the two was already rich going into this fight.
Folayang had earned a TKO win back in 2016, but Aoki returned the favor with two submission finishes in 2019 and 2021.
This fourth encounter was not only a chance to further tip the series in his favor – it was also a rare MMA appearance for Aoki, who had only fought once in the past three years, scoring a slick submission over John Lineker at ONE 165.
When the action began, there was a brief exchange of positioning before Aoki went to work.
Skipping strikes entirely, he dove straight for a takedown. Folayang managed to sprawl and stuff the attempt, returning Aoki to his feet and delivering a few knees to the body in the clinch.
But Aoki then pulled guard and immediately trapped one of Folayang’s arms with a tight overhook.
He brought his leg over Folayang’s head, underhooked the leg, and as Folayang tried to escape by standing, Aoki flipped belly-down and bridged hard into a textbook Armbar finish.
The tap came just 53 seconds into the first round.
View this post on Instagram
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.
