The event took place at the Vietnam Mixed Martial Arts Federation (VMMAF) headquarters in Hanoi on the evening of 6/7/2025. Tran Ngoc Luong’s opponents, weighing around 60 kg, specialized in boxing, kickboxing, MMA, and jiu-jitsu.
Before an audience of about 100 people, Luong sparred with each opponent for two minutes, with one-minute breaks between rounds. The fighter, born in 1995, maintained an active defense and offense, conserving energy throughout the hour in the octagon.
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Tran Ngoc Luong (center) poses with amateur fighters and spectators at the Vietnam Mixed Martial Arts Federation in Hanoi, 6/7/2025. Photo: RVC |
Tran Ngoc Luong (center) poses with amateur fighters and spectators at the Vietnam Mixed Martial Arts Federation in Hanoi, 6/7/2025. Photo: RVC
While Luong didn't aim for knockouts or takedowns, he effortlessly destabilized his opponents with well-placed body and leg strikes. The difference in skill and physique made it difficult for the amateurs to land effective blows. They also struggled to escape Luong’s locks and holds.
Asian jiu-jitsu champion Dao Hong Son, present at the event, noted the clear gap between professional and amateur fighters. "The speed and technique are different. But this is also an opportunity for amateur fighters to recognize the skill gap and continue to strive in their training," Son said.
Luong emphasized that the event wasn't about winning or losing. "This is a chance to exchange martial arts skills with others who share the same passion," the 1995-born fighter said.
Luong began with vovinam, then transitioned to kickboxing and jiu-jitsu. He has won 4 national jiu-jitsu gold medals and a silver medal at the 2022 Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championship. Since 2023, he has competed in MMA, with a record of 8 wins and 1 loss. His only defeat was against Japanese fighter Kaito Oda at ONE Championship 2024.
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Tran Ngoc Luong (left) wins by TKO against Brazilian fighter Felype Morais at LION Championship 17 at Tay Ho Stadium, Hanoi, 8/9/2024. Photo: LION |
Tran Ngoc Luong (left) wins by TKO against Brazilian fighter Felype Morais at LION Championship 17 at Tay Ho Stadium, Hanoi, 8/9/2024. Photo: LION
In Vietnam’s premier MMA league, LION Championship (LC), Luong ranks 6th on the pound-for-pound list. He follows 84kg champion Pham Cong Minh, 65kg champion Nghiem Van Y, 70kg champion Jovidon Khojaev (Tajikistan), 56kg champion Le Van Tuan, and AGOGE teammate Pham Van Nam. The pound-for-pound ranking compares top fighters regardless of weight class to determine who possesses the best overall skill and power.
Luong's MMA debut against Robson Oliveira at LC 5 in 4/2023 sparked controversy. While the Brazilian fighter dominated with throws, the judges awarded Luong the victory. Subsequently, the VMMAF disciplined three judges.
A rematch was scheduled for LION 24 in Hanoi on 12/7. However, the fight was canceled due to Oliveira's broken leg sustained during a ONE Championship bout. The incident generated controversy within the MMA community. Robson faced a 300 million VND fine, but the matter was likely resolved by arranging a different match against Le Van Tuan, Robson's teammate.
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LION Championship pound-for-pound rankings, 6/2025. Photo: LION |
LION Championship pound-for-pound rankings, 6/2025. Photo: LION
At LC 23, Le Van Tuan defeated Luong's teammate Pham Van Nam to claim the 56kg title. The Cao Bang native wants to challenge Luong for the 60kg belt, aiming to become the first fighter to hold two LC titles. However, LION has not confirmed the match.
"I heard Luong sparred with 20 amateur fighters. I truly admire him, but I'm also a bit worried. If anything happens to him, the 60kg belt will remain vacant. Remember to train well and take care of your health. The 60kg belt has been lonely for too long," Tuan posted on his Facebook page.
Luong re-shared the post with a reply: "LION, what are we waiting for? The gun is loaded, just waiting for the signal to fire. Thank you, Tuan, for your concern. I'm still healthy." In the comments, Tuan wrote: "I'm glad you're okay. You had me worried."
Hieu Luong
