Mekhdi Dakaev forced Nikita Podkovalnikov to submit in the second round at ACA 203. This marks Dakaev's first victory since June 2023, ending a two-fight losing streak and improving his record to 16-4. Podkovalnikov drops to 13-7 with his second consecutive loss. The finish came via submission in round two. Details on the specific submission technique were not provided in the announcement.
Mekhdi Dakaev snapped a two-fight losing streak in convincing fashion at ACA 203 on May 8, 2026, forcing Nikita Podkovalnikov to submit in the second round to claim his first victory since June 2023.
The finish moved Dakaev's professional record to 16-4, a welcome return to the win column after back-to-back defeats had put his momentum on hold. The specific submission technique was not disclosed in the official announcement.
Podkovalnikov, meanwhile, absorbs his second consecutive loss, sliding to 13-7. The defeat continues a difficult stretch for the fighter, who will be looking to arrest a skid that has now extended to two straight outings.
Why it matters
- Dakaev's submission finish demonstrates he remains a threat on the ground despite his recent rough patch
- The win at 16-4 re-establishes him as a relevant contender within ACA's roster
- Podkovalnikov's back-to-back losses raise questions about where he stands in the divisional picture going forward
- The result could shape matchmaking for both fighters as ACA looks to build its next set of events
