van Buchinger Returns to Face Richie Smullen at Oktagon 77; Gamechanger Semis Set

Bratislava, Slovakia – August 23, 2025: Oktagon MMA announced a high‑stakes matchup for Oct. 4 as former lightweight and featherweight champion Ivan Buchinger will headline Oktagon 77 against surging Irishman Richie Smullen. Buchinger, now 38, was originally scheduled to meet Vojto Barborik, but Barborik withdrew due to injury. Smullen stepped in after finishing Barborik at Oktagon 73 and currently rides a five‑fight win streak. With lightweight champion Losene Keita departing the promotion, the winner of Buchinger–Smullen may find himself fighting for the vacant belt.

Oktagon 77 will also host the Tipsport Gamechanger tournament semifinals. One pairing matches German finisher Kerim Engizek against Slovak fan favorite Dominik Humburger, while the other pits former UFC middleweight contender Krzysztof Jotko against Iranian powerhouse Hojat Khajevand. The tournament’s innovative format has attracted notable talent, and the semifinals promise intriguing style matchups. Engizek, known for his striking, faces Humburger’s grappling, and Jotko’s polished game will be tested by Khajevand’s unorthodox offense.

The remainder of the card features a host of Slovakian favorites. Light heavyweight slugger Vlasto Cepo meets German tough guy Daniel Schwindt, while seasoned welterweight Samuel Kristofic faces Spain’s Jaime Cordero. Women’s strawweight standout Monika Chochlikova returns against Atenea Flores, and rising featherweight Marko Novak welcomes Corey Fry to the promotion. The event will also mark the return of women’s pioneer Veronika Smolkova.

Oktagon continues to bolster its roster and schedule as one of Europe’s premier MMA promotions. Buchinger’s return, Smullen’s surge and the Gamechanger semis provide multiple storylines. With European MMA experiencing unprecedented growth, Oktagon 77 is shaping up to be one of the region’s most anticipated cards.