OKTAGON MMA Sets New Ratings Record with 1.3 million Viewers

OKTAGON MMA continues its rapid rise across Europe after setting a new ratings benchmark this past weekend. 

Their flagship latest event, OKTAGON 69, pulled in an incredible 1.3 million viewers on mainstream German broadcaster RTL+ — the highest viewership the promotion has achieved since the landmark partnership began last year.

"This Is Just the Beginning" — Pavol Neruda

For OKTAGON MMA co-owner Pavol Neruda, the record-breaking weekend represents far more than just a number. 

Speaking to SportsBoom.com, he shared his excitement about the company's growing influence and vision for the future.

“We are doing this for the fans — that’s our highest motivation! It’s our goal to be a sport for the masses in Germany and all-around Europe," said Neruda. 

"Knowing that we had 1.3 million viewers this past weekend, who were all having fun and being entertained, is the best reward for us. We still truly see this as just the beginning for what OKTAGON MMA can become!”

The figures highlight how quickly OKTAGON MMA has embedded itself into the mainstream sporting consciousness in Germany. Since signing with RTL+ in 2023, the organisation has steadily grown its audience, and this weekend's success underlines the surging popularity of MMA in the region.

Dortmund Erupts as Max Holzer Delivers

The electric atmosphere inside Dortmund’s historic Westfalenhalle played a big role in the night’s success. The sold-out arena was rocking from start to finish, with local favourite Max Holzer headlining the card.

Holzer rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion, delivering a fourth-round submission finish over Deniz Ilbay, that sent the home crowd into raptures. His fast-paced, aggressive style was too much for his opponent to handle, and the win further cements Holzer as one of Germany’s brightest MMA prospects.

The Westfalenhalle, known for hosting some of Germany’s biggest sports events, proved to be the perfect setting for a landmark night for the promotion.

Aaron Aby’s Brave Return Ends in Heartbreak

Elsewhere on the card, there was huge anticipation for the return of Welsh fan favourite Aaron Aby. Making his comeback to OKTAGON, Aby stepped into the cage determined to make a statement.

Despite a gritty and determined performance, Aby’s return ended in disappointment as he was narrowly beaten by Mohammed Walid, via a 2:1 split decision. The fight was closely contested throughout, with Aby showcasing his resilience and technical skill, but ultimately, the judges leaned slightly in favour of his opponent.

While the result didn’t go his way, Aby’s display earned him plenty of respect from fans and commentators alike, and he remains an important figure within OKTAGON's international roster.

A New Era for OKTAGON MMA

With 1.3 million people tuning in and another sold-out arena under their belt, OKTAGON MMA’s latest success is further proof that the promotion’s ambitious plans for expansion are on track.

The record ratings not only validate the work being done behind the scenes but also signal a growing appetite for world-class MMA across Germany and Europe as a whole. As Pavol Neruda said, this feels very much like the beginning of an exciting new era for the promotion — and for European MMA.

Fans can expect even bigger things in the months ahead as OKTAGON MMA looks to build on its historic momentum.