The recent ONE Championship event in Bangkok, Thailand, delivered an evening saturated with compelling narratives, unexpected outcomes, and defining moments that will undoubtedly reshape various divisions. From triumphant returns and impressive debuts to legendary farewells and divisional shake-ups, the Lumpinee Stadium witnessed the dynamic essence of combat sports in full display.
A Debut to Remember: Selina Flores` Masterclass Against Marie McManamon
One of the night`s standout performances came from debutant Selina Flores. The San Diego native, stepping into the ONE Championship ring for the first time, faced Britain`s former UK No. 1, Marie McManamon. Flores, arriving with the undeniable pedigree of a WBC world title at a higher weight class, made an immediate and decisive impact at 115lbs. Despite McManamon`s consistent forward pressure and commendable ring control, Flores proved to be an exceptionally tricky puzzle. Her ability to score effectively off the back foot with sharp counter shots ultimately secured a unanimous decision victory, moving her career slate to an impressive 9-1 and extending her winning streak to five. For McManamon, who fought valiantly, this marks her second defeat in ONE, highlighting the steep competitive curve within the organization.
Redemption Seized: Jonathan Di Bella Reclaims the Crown
In a highly anticipated showdown, Jonathan Di Bella finally achieved his long-sought redemption, culminating in a unified ONE Strawweight Kickboxing World Championship victory. Facing the formidable two-sport king, P.K Saenchai, Di Bella delivered a performance of tactical brilliance and unwavering resolve, securing a unanimous decision. This win not only signifies a personal triumph for Di Bella but also solidifies his position at the apex of the strawweight kickboxing division, demonstrating that persistence, when combined with skill, inevitably leads to glory.
A Legend`s Lasting Legacy: Aung La N Sang`s Resounding Victory
The co-main event provided a poignant chapter in the storied career of Aung La N Sang. The legendary former two-division ONE World Champion from Myanmar, affectionately known as `The Burmese Python,` delivered a powerful performance against former welterweight king Zebaztian Kadestam. N Sang`s relentless pummeling led to a referee stoppage in the second round, securing his 31st career win and electrifying the stadium crowd. This victory serves as a fitting precursor to his upcoming induction into the ONE Championship Hall of Fame in November at ONE 173 in Tokyo, cementing his status as one of the promotion`s most revered icons. It was a stark reminder that true champions, even at 40, can still dictate the terms of engagement.
Flyweight Fury: The Division Thrown Wide Open
Beyond the main card`s marquee matchups, the flyweight Muay Thai division experienced a dramatic upheaval, signaling a significant shift in its hierarchy. In a stunning upset, the No. 5-ranked Jaosuayai Sor Dechapan was swiftly defeated by Akif Guluzada, who dropped the crowd favorite with a devastating knee to the head in the first round. The surprises continued as Uzbek fighter Aslamjon Ortiko scored a decisive victory against Kongthoranee Sor Sommai, punctuated by a key knockdown. These results have effectively blown the top of the division wide open, adding an intense layer of intrigue to the upcoming vacant title fight between Rodtang Jitmuangnon and Nong-O Hama at ONE 172. The message is clear: in combat sports, the established order is always subject to challenge, and new threats are perpetually emerging.
A Night of Shifting Sands
In essence, this ONE Championship event was a microcosm of the dynamic, unpredictable, and often brutal beauty of combat sports. It was a night where new stars were forged, champions were reaffirmed, and legends penned their latest, glorious paragraphs. The outcomes serve as a powerful testament to the ever-evolving landscape of professional fighting, where every punch, every kick, and every decision can fundamentally alter a fighter`s trajectory and the very structure of a division. Spectators were left with a clear understanding: in the world of ONE Championship, expecting the unexpected is not just a possibility, it`s a prerequisite.
