The Dominican fighter earned a unanimous decision victory in the MTT 10 main event, improving his professional record to 12 wins and just one loss.
By José Zabala, Content Creator
Detroit, Michigan – Dominican sports celebrated another historic milestone as fighter Yoniel Santana Batista captured the Mitten Muay Thai (MTT 10) championship by defeating defending champion Mason «The Persian Prince» Shilaei via unanimous decision (50-45) in the night’s main event at the Imperial House in Clinton Township, Michigan.
Delivering a dominant performance from start to finish, Santana Batista won all five rounds against the hometown favorite, a seasoned veteran who entered the bout with more than 40 professional fights and an impressive 29-9 record. However, Shilaei was unable to match the Dominican challenger’s pace, precision, and tactical execution.
The victory crowns Yoniel Santana Batista as the organization’s new champion and improves his professional record to 12 wins and just one defeat, further establishing him as one of the rising stars of Muay Thai in the United States.
A Performance That Impressed Everyone
The championship fight had generated significant anticipation in the days leading up to the event due to the heated exchanges between both fighters during the pre-fight press conferences.
Once the opening bell rang, however, Yoniel let his performance do the talking. He controlled the fight with crisp combinations, constant movement, and a smart game plan that neutralized the defending champion throughout the contest.
The judges scored the fight 50-45 in favor of Santana Batista, reflecting his clear dominance over five rounds.
«This Is Just the Beginning»
Following his championship victory, Yoniel Santana Batista thanked everyone who supported him and made it clear that this achievement is only the beginning of a much bigger journey.
«This was my first full Muay Thai rules fight without elbows, and I’m grateful to earn a unanimous decision victory against a very experienced opponent with nearly 40 fights.»
The new champion also expressed his appreciation to the people who helped prepare him for the biggest fight of his career.
«Thank you to everyone who supported me. Special thanks to my coach, Ridvan Vllasaliu, and everyone at Rigoro Gym. It’s an honor to be part of one of the best kickboxing gyms in the United States and to train with such an incredible team.»
He also thanked the promotion for the opportunity to compete for the title.
«Many thanks to Mitten Muay Thai Promotion and Warriors Cup for this opportunity. Thank you to everyone who helped prepare me for this fight. Twelve wins feels great—but we’re just getting started.»
Praise from His Team
Members of Santana Batista’s corner also praised the Dominican fighter’s discipline, determination, and championship performance.
They highlighted the challenge of facing a highly experienced hometown champion in one of the toughest fights of his career.
«Yoniel delivered an outstanding performance, winning by unanimous decision (50-45), taking every round, and capturing the championship. I’m incredibly proud of his discipline, heart, and dedication. This is only the beginning.»
The team also thanked everyone who supported them throughout the journey.
«Thank you to everyone who stood by us along the way. Your encouragement means everything. We also thank Mitten Muay Thai for the opportunity and extend special appreciation to coach Chris Tran for joining our corner and helping prepare Yoniel throughout the fight.»
A New Dominican Champion
Yoniel Santana Batista’s victory represents much more than winning a championship belt.
It confirms the continued rise of Dominican athletes in combat sports and demonstrates that Dominican talent continues to make its mark on the international stage.
With only 12 professional victories, the new champion has already established himself as one of the sport’s brightest prospects, while making it clear that his ambitions extend far beyond this title.
His victory over Mason «The Persian Prince» Shilaei will be remembered as one of the defining moments of his career and as another proud chapter in Dominican sports history, adding a new international champion through the talent, discipline, and determination of Yoniel Santana Batista (@yonielsb)
