In Moscow, Russia at M-1 Global: Fedor vs. Monson, Daniel Weichel knocked out Jose Figueroa in under two minutes of the first round to become the new M-1 Challenge Lightweight champion. The German Weichel is now 28-7, while American Top Team fighter Figueroa loses his belt and falls to 10-5.

This fight was entirely contested on its feet. At first, it looked like the story would be Figueroa using his superior reach to outstrike the challenger. In the opening exchanges, Figueroa used that reach well, switching stances between orthodox and south paw. 

Figueroa looked to be finding his striking rhythm when, just before the two minute mark of round 1, he threw a jab at Weichel. Weichel did an excellent job slipping the jab, stepping in to close the distance, and bringing in a counter overhand right. That right landed clean, sending the champion sprawling to the canvas. Weichel jumped on him, landing a few quick ground and pound shots to secure the win and claim the M-1 Lightweight crown.

A 10 year veteran of the sport, the new champion Weichel has fought a number of notable names, and has a 2006 win over Dennis Siver among others.