https://www.scmp.com/rss/501211/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Mohammad Siasarani was speaking with the calm certainty of a fighter who feels aligned with his moment. Days after knocking out “Smokin’” Jo Nattawut to secure a US$100,000 ONE Championship contract, the 23-year-old Iranian sounded less relieved than resolved. “For a long time, my goal was just the contract,” Siasarani told the Post. “Now it is finished. My goal now is the belt.” The finish itself at ONE Friday Fights 137 in Bangkok on December 19 was emphatic: a clean second-round stoppage that... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3337901/one-championship-mohammad-siasarani-finally-gets-coveted-contract-now-he-wants-belt?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3337901/one-championship-mohammad-siasarani-finally-gets-coveted-contract-now-he-wants-belt?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 28 Dec 2025 01:00:33 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Aliff Rakib will challenge long-reigning strawweight Muay Thai champion Prajanchai PK Saenchai for the ONE Championship world title in February 2026, promotion chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong has announced during a Facebook Live broadcast. The confirmation comes less than two weeks after Rakib produced a composed and tactically disciplined performance to defeat Ramadan Ondash by unanimous decision at ONE Fight Night 38, extending his winning streak in the organisation to five fights and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3337014/one-championship-aliff-rakib-take-prajanchai-strawweight-muay-thai-world-title?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3337014/one-championship-aliff-rakib-take-prajanchai-strawweight-muay-thai-world-title?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 19 Dec 2025 05:27:48 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw ONE Championship Thailand president Jitinat “Plai” Asdamongkol has said the promotion’s renewed partnership with Lumpinee Stadium was a major signal of intent, with Thailand set to remain the company’s global engine room as it targeted further domestic and international growth. Speaking after the Royal Thai Army confirmed a two-year extension with ONE, Plai said the collaboration had already reshaped the landscape of Muay Thai. “Lumpinee and the Royal Thai Army invited ONE Championship about... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3334899/one-championship-thailand-chief-outlines-bold-expansion-plans-after-lumpinee-renewal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3334899/one-championship-thailand-chief-outlines-bold-expansion-plans-after-lumpinee-renewal?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Dec 2025 08:21:57 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw The highly anticipated flyweight Muay Thai world title fight between Rodtang Jitmuangnon and Nong-O Hama has been cancelled after Rodtang informed ONE Championship medical staff that he was unwell and was taken to hospital for treatment and evaluation. The promotion confirmed the news on Friday afternoon in Tokyo, ending hopes of a blockbuster showdown at ONE 173 on Sunday. The cancellation came shortly after a difficult weigh-in morning for both men. Nong-O failed hydration testing and was... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/article/3332919/one-championship-rodtang-v-nong-o-title-fight-cancelled-after-ironman-hospitalised?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/article/3332919/one-championship-rodtang-v-nong-o-title-fight-cancelled-after-ironman-hospitalised?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 15 Nov 2025 08:20:41 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Stamp Fairtex has all the elements of a star. She was the first three-sport world champion in ONE Championship history. Her walkouts are iconic, her smile is infectious and her personality has made her one of the most beloved figures in Asian combat sports. But it has not all been Korean hearts and TikTok dances for the crowd favourite. The Thai superstar has endured one of the toughest spells of her career, forced to relinquish her atomweight Muay Thai belt last year because of a chronic knee... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3332848/one-championship-thai-star-stamp-fairtex-make-lost-time-against-kana-morimoto?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3332848/one-championship-thai-star-stamp-fairtex-make-lost-time-against-kana-morimoto?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Nov 2025 11:31:54 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Rodtang Jitmuangnon is a pure showman. From going viral for dropping his hands to marching forward with relentless pressure and fire in his gloves, he is the ultimate fan-friendly fighter. There is no “off” switch and there are no backwards steps, even when it is a friend standing across from him in the ring. Ahead of his flyweight Muay Thai showdown with Nong-O Hama at ONE 173 in Tokyo on Sunday, the Thai superstar said he had no intention of changing his approach. “This is my style and I... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3332772/one-championship-rodtang-jitmuangnon-vows-fight-rocket-against-nong-o-hama?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3332772/one-championship-rodtang-jitmuangnon-vows-fight-rocket-against-nong-o-hama?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Nov 2025 06:25:29 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Nabil Anane was ready to defend his ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world title against Jonathan Haggerty at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena on Sunday – a dream match-up between two of the most exciting strikers in the sport. But when Haggerty withdrew through injury, the plan changed overnight. Instead, the 21-year-old Thai-Algerian phenom will now face Japan’s Hiromi Wajima under kickboxing rules at featherweight at ONE 173: Superbon vs Noiri. It is a major test for Anane, who stands 1.93 metres tall (six... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3332699/one-championship-nabil-anane-face-hiromi-wajima-one-173-after-injury-pull-out?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3332699/one-championship-nabil-anane-face-hiromi-wajima-one-173-after-injury-pull-out?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 13 Nov 2025 14:32:13 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Nico Carrillo showed exactly why he was considered one of the most dangerous finishers in Muay Thai after dispatching Luke “The Chef” Lessei in the co-main event of ONE Fight Night 37 in Bangkok last Saturday. The Scottish contender survived early adversity, switched stances and tore through Lessei with a ruthless second-round barrage to maintain his 100 per cent finishing rate inside ONE Championship. Carrillo weathered a difficult opening round, absorbing a steady diet of low kicks and teeps,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3332227/one-championship-nico-carrillo-doubles-down-title-push-after-dismantling-luke-lessei?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3332227/one-championship-nico-carrillo-doubles-down-title-push-after-dismantling-luke-lessei?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:17:17 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Abdulla Dayakaev believes destiny is calling ahead of his clash with Thailand’s Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon at ONE Fight Night 37 on Friday. The Dagestani knockout machine has torn through the bantamweight Muay Thai ranks and now stands on the brink of title contention. Now he sees himself with one simple mission: win in style and position himself for Jonathan Haggerty. Dayakaev will ride some serious momentum into the bout. The 23-year-old has finished four straight opponents inside the distance,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3331886/dayakaev-ready-face-destiny-one-fight-night-37-wants-jonathan-haggerty-next?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3331886/dayakaev-ready-face-destiny-one-fight-night-37-wants-jonathan-haggerty-next?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:37:28 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Nong-O Hama has spent decades at the pinnacle of Muay Thai, but at 38 years old, the Thai legend is chasing one final summit. And to reclaim gold and prove he can still rule the sport’s highest level, he must defeat not just any opponent, but a friend and one of the most celebrated fighters of his generation. At ONE 173 in Tokyo next month, Nong-O will face fellow Thai superstar Rodtang Jitmuangnon for the vacant ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title. It is a match-up between two icons whose names... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3330733/one-championship-nong-o-hama-rodtang-jitmuangnon-leave-friendship-outside-ring?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3330733/one-championship-nong-o-hama-rodtang-jitmuangnon-leave-friendship-outside-ring?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:41:48 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Prajanchai PK Saenchai will step into Lumpinee Stadium on Saturday for a rematch with Jonathan Di Bella, and the Thai double champion is confident he has made the right changes to get the job done against the Canadian-Italian. “Of course, my plan has changed – it will be very difficult for him to beat me,” he told the Post ahead of the strawweight kickboxing world title bout at ONE Fight Night 36 in Bangkok. The pair went five close rounds in their first meeting, with some fans believing Di... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3327656/one-championship-prajanchai-ready-rematch-biggest-test-jonathan-di-bella?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3327656/one-championship-prajanchai-ready-rematch-biggest-test-jonathan-di-bella?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 02 Oct 2025 10:21:34 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Rukiya Anpo has made his intentions crystal clear ahead of his ONE Championship debut: the Japanese kickboxing ace said Marat Grigorian was only the first obstacle in his path to compatriot Masaaki Noiri. “Marat is my stepping stone to the belt,” Anpo told the Post after the ONE 173 press conference in Tokyo. “When I met him backstage, I told him exactly why I came to ONE: to get revenge against Noiri. That’s my mission here.” Noiri, the interim featherweight kickboxing world champion, beat Anpo... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3326109/one-championship-rukiya-anpo-says-marat-grigorian-just-stepping-stone-old-foe?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3326109/one-championship-rukiya-anpo-says-marat-grigorian-just-stepping-stone-old-foe?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 19 Sep 2025 06:20:42 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw ONE Championship has officially added Japanese superstar Rukiya Anpo to its roster and confirmed two more world title bouts for its blockbuster ONE 173 card, set for November 16 in Japan. The event will now feature American Christian Lee’s highly anticipated rematch with Russia’s Alibeg Rasulov for the ONE lightweight MMA world title and a historic inaugural ONE atomweight Muay Thai world title fight between Nadaka Yoshinari and Numsurin Chor Ketwina. The announcement came during a press... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3325338/one-championship-rukiya-anpo-signs-2-more-world-title-bouts-added-one-173-card?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3325338/one-championship-rukiya-anpo-signs-2-more-world-title-bouts-added-one-173-card?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Sep 2025 09:04:26 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Stella Hemetsberger was still walking on clouds after her surprise victory over Jackie Buntan at ONE Fight Night 35 in Bangkok, a result that made her Austria’s first ONE Championship world champion. The 26-year-old captured the vacant strawweight Muay Thai world title last Saturday with a unanimous decision against the division’s reigning kickboxing queen. It was a gruelling five-round contest that saw Hemetsberger drop Buntan twice in the opening frame before holding off the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3325242/one-championship-strawweight-world-champ-hemetsberger-sure-buntan-rematch-will-happen?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3325242/one-championship-strawweight-world-champ-hemetsberger-sure-buntan-rematch-will-happen?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 Sep 2025 13:52:49 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Regian Eersel added another emphatic chapter to his reign as ONE’s lightweight Muay Thai king, dispatching George Jarvis with a first-round knockout in the main event of ONE Fight Night 34 on Friday. The Suriname-born Dutchman needed just 84 seconds to finish off the British challenger at Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium, retaining his title and taking home a US$50,000 performance bonus. Eersel had spoken beforehand about a strategy to drag Jarvis into deep waters and score a late finish, but once the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3320554/one-championship-regian-eersel-kos-george-jarvis-retain-lightweight-muay-thai-title?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3320554/one-championship-regian-eersel-kos-george-jarvis-retain-lightweight-muay-thai-title?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 02 Aug 2025 14:19:23 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Muay Thai sensation Johan Ghazali said he was ready to silence the doubters when he returns to action at ONE Fight Night 35 at Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium in September. The 18-year-old will face Morocco’s Zakaria El Jamari in a flyweight Muay Thai contest and aimed to deliver a statement performance after a tough decision loss to Colombian-American Diego Paez in June. “My layovers are a little too long for my liking, but I’m just happy to be back in there,” Ghazali told the Post. That last outing... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3319496/malaysian-muay-thai-star-johan-ghazali-brushes-haters-ahead-one-fight-night-35?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3319496/malaysian-muay-thai-star-johan-ghazali-brushes-haters-ahead-one-fight-night-35?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 24 Jul 2025 14:04:08 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Newly crowned ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion Nabil Anane said he was ready for a superfight with Jonathan Haggerty – and his coach wanted it to happen as soon as September. The 21-year-old was handed the belt inside the ring at ONE Friday Fights 114 late last month, after Superlek Kiatmoo9 failed to make weight for their rematch back in March. It marked an unusual coronation for one of the sport’s fastest-rising stars, but Anane took it in his stride. “I didn’t know it was going to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3317705/surprised-one-muay-thai-belt-holder-nabil-anane-keen-jonathan-haggerty-superfight?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3317705/surprised-one-muay-thai-belt-holder-nabil-anane-keen-jonathan-haggerty-superfight?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 10 Jul 2025 08:42:59 +0000 Mike Chan Mike Chan Muay Thai legend Superlek Kiatmoo9 said he did not expect to fight again this year, but had his sights set on three belts when he does finally return to the ring. Speaking during a visit to Hong Kong, the 29-year-old ended speculation he could feature at the star-studded ONE 173 event in Tokyo in November, saying his next bout could be “maybe by the start of next year”. While the current ONE Championship flyweight kickboxing title holder said he was more focused on that discipline for the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3317493/one-championship-superlek-eyes-3-title-shots-says-he-wont-fight-again-year?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/kickboxing/article/3317493/one-championship-superlek-eyes-3-title-shots-says-he-wont-fight-again-year?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 09 Jul 2025 05:30:08 +0000 Lars Hamer Lars Hamer Hong Kong’s Muay Thai fans and fighters will have the opportunity to train with ONE Championship flyweight kickboxing world champion Superlek Kiatmoo9, with the “Kicking Machine” visiting the city for the first time this weekend. Considered one of the greatest exponents in Muay Thai history, the 29-year-old will host a seminar at the Tai Po Sports Association Li Fook Lam Indoor Sports Centre on Sunday. The organisers, Weedper Fitness Club and Ocean Muay Thai & Fitness, called the event “a rare... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3316354/muay-thai-legend-superlek-kiatmoo9-share-elite-fighting-techniques-hong-kong-fans?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3316354/muay-thai-legend-superlek-kiatmoo9-share-elite-fighting-techniques-hong-kong-fans?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 30 Jun 2025 07:45:10 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Algerian Muay Thai stand-out Younes Rabah knows that victory over Shadow Singha Mawynn in the co-main event at ONE Fight Night 33 on July 12 in Bangkok will all but guarantee him a place in the featherweight Muay Thai top five – where the Thai star currently sits after a surging five-fight winning streak. “I just feel excited for this new challenge for me,” Rabah told the Post. “I feel like I’m taking one more step towards achieving my goal.” Shadow, who is ranked third after his winning run,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3315930/one-championship-younes-rabah-hopes-seal-top-5-spot-against-shadow-singha-mawynn?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3315930/one-championship-younes-rabah-hopes-seal-top-5-spot-against-shadow-singha-mawynn?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 26 Jun 2025 08:43:42 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw The timing could not be more perfect, George Jarvis said, as the Briton gears up for a career-defining clash against reigning two-sport champion Regian Eersel at ONE Fight Night 34. The 24-year-old will challenge the Surinamese-Dutch title-holder at Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium on August 2 for the Lightweight Muay Thai World Championship, and Jarvis described it as a moment that “has been written” for years. Visualising this opportunity, he said, had never left his mind since his ONE Championship... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3314274/one-fight-night-34-george-jarvis-relishes-shot-regian-eersels-muay-thai-world-title?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3314274/one-fight-night-34-george-jarvis-relishes-shot-regian-eersels-muay-thai-world-title?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 13 Jun 2025 05:38:56 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw It was not a great morning for ONE Championship’s young wannabes in Bangkok on Saturday. Johan Estupinan had blitzed his way into the organisation as a born entertainer, complete with flamboyant dance moves, backflips, agile kicks and, most importantly, five straight wins. And then, at ONE Fight Night 32, the Colombian ran into his biggest test yet – Taiki Naito, who sent a timely reminder to his doubters having lost his past two contests. Still ranked No 3 in the promotion’s flyweight... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3313596/not-great-day-johans-estupinan-ghazali-both-lose-one-fight-night-32?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3313596/not-great-day-johans-estupinan-ghazali-both-lose-one-fight-night-32?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Jun 2025 04:09:06 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Freddie Haggerty has denied turning down a fight with Johan Ghazali, in a fiery response to the teenage striking sensation’s claims “he didn’t want it”. The Briton hit back at comments Ghazali made in an interview with the Post, saying there were “delusional and that’s the truth” and if he was offered a fight with the 18-year-old by ONE Championship he would “say yes like there was no tomorrow”. And Haggerty, the younger brother of ONE Bantamweight kickboxing World Champion Jonathan Haggerty,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3312475/one-championship-haggerty-blasts-delusional-ghazali-denies-ducking-fight-teen?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3312475/one-championship-haggerty-blasts-delusional-ghazali-denies-ducking-fight-teen?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 30 May 2025 09:22:33 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Stamp Fairtex, one of the greatest female combat-sport athletes on the planet, is working hard to overcome a serious knee injury and return stronger than ever. Having reigned as a world champion in three different sports, the 27-year-old fighter has endured a tough spell of adversity in what has been a hard road back to full health. Stamp earlier this month suffered a setback while rehabbing her surgically repaired knee, which forced her to withdraw from her highly anticipated ONE women’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3310803/one-championship-stamp-fairtex-vows-come-back-stronger-despite-latest-injury-setback?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3310803/one-championship-stamp-fairtex-vows-come-back-stronger-despite-latest-injury-setback?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 18 May 2025 07:27:21 +0000 Brian Wong Brian Wong A former Hong Kong Muay Thai champion has been jailed for two years for dangerous driving causing the deaths of a prominent plastic surgeon and another while working as a part-time taxi driver last year. Kok Yat-sum, 34, on Tuesday pleaded guilty at the District Court for ignoring a red light and causing a double-decker bus to crash into her taxi at an intersection in Wan Chai on the night of January 14, 2024. The defendant was a Thai boxer who triumphed in Group B of the women’s 57kg category... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3310121/former-hong-kong-muay-thai-champion-given-2-years-fatal-dangerous-driving?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3310121/former-hong-kong-muay-thai-champion-given-2-years-fatal-dangerous-driving?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 May 2025 06:16:23 +0000 Lars Hamer Lars Hamer One of Hong Kong’s top Muay Thai fighters said a local promoter still owed tens of thousands of dollars to her and six other athletes for a competition that took place in mainland China last year. Emily Chong Lok-ming took to social media to complain that Space One Champions Event had withheld her purse and that of “all Hong Kong and certain foreign fighters”. The 19-year-old, who asked for her total fee not to be disclosed, told the Post she had been trying to get her payment from company... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3308984/hong-kong-fighter-chong-chases-late-bout-fee-promoter-threatens-legal-action?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3308984/hong-kong-fighter-chong-chases-late-bout-fee-promoter-threatens-legal-action?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 May 2025 02:00:39 +0000 Andrew Whitelaw Andrew Whitelaw Abolfazl Alipourandi seized his opportunity in emphatic fashion with a 59-second walk-off knockout against Liam Nolan at ONE Fight Night 31 on Saturday. The Englishman had briefly retired after losing to Nauzet Trujillo last year but was inspired to return in hopes of exacting revenge in a rematch. However, when the Spaniard pulled out, Alipourandi jumped at the chance to make his ONE Championship debut. And with less than a minute gone, unleashed a perfect kick to his opponent’s head, leaving... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3308958/abolfazl-alipourandi-ends-liam-nolans-one-championship-return-just-59-seconds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3308958/abolfazl-alipourandi-ends-liam-nolans-one-championship-return-just-59-seconds?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 May 2025 10:08:21 +0000 Asa Ten Pow believes he has reignited American Muay Thai after scoring the biggest win of his career – a stunning third-round TKO of Thai icon Seksan Or Kwanmuang. The 35-year-old Florida native dropped Seksan three times during their 142lbs Muay Thai clash in Bangkok, forcing the referee to wave off the contest just 37 seconds into the third round. “I’m back at it,” Ten Pow told the Post. “I showcased everything in there – American Muay Thai, who we are, what we do. I felt great.” Ten Pow’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3305383/asa-ten-pow-felt-snubbed-one-championship-after-seksan-win-says-im-rocky-van-damme?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3305383/asa-ten-pow-felt-snubbed-one-championship-after-seksan-win-says-im-rocky-van-damme?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 06 Apr 2025 03:34:32 +0000 Already the holder of ONE Championship heavyweight kickboxing and Muay Thai world titles, Roman Kryklia rode a 14-fight winning streak into Bangkok, and added another victim to his list, flattening Britain’s Lyndon Knowles in the first round of their clash at ONE Fight Night 30 on Saturday. The Ukrainian’s fifth consecutive knockout in the Muay Thai title bout came after an opening knockdown with a clean left hook. While Knowles beat the count, Kryklia sealed the deal with a clean right cross... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3305339/kryklia-makes-short-work-knowles-one-fight-night-30-waiting-good-opponents?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3305339/kryklia-makes-short-work-knowles-one-fight-night-30-waiting-good-opponents?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 05 Apr 2025 07:53:22 +0000 A brawl involving students inside a popular mall in Bangkok has prompted condemnation from a Thai minister and calls for tougher security measures. In response to the incident at MBK Centre on Saturday night, Thailand’s higher education minister Supamas Isarabhakdi said security would be stepped up in high-risk areas and police would monitor rival student groups, according to the Bangkok Post. “The incident is unacceptable. It was aggression and caused trouble to general people. Of course, there... https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/economics/article/3303662/bangkok-brawls-thai-minister-calls-tougher-mall-security-after-student-fights?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/economics/article/3303662/bangkok-brawls-thai-minister-calls-tougher-mall-security-after-student-fights?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 24 Mar 2025 11:11:34 +0000 Superlek Kiatmuu9 is a name that will be talked about in Muay Thai circles through the ages. Already a veteran of more than 170 fights, with a trophy cabinet fit to burst, he is “built different”. If he were to retire tomorrow, he would go down as one of the best fighters to ever pick up the gloves. On Sunday at Japan’s Saitama Super Arena, the 29-year-old has a chance to enhance his legacy further by shutting down Nabil Anane – one of the most exciting young talents in the game – again. In... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3303319/one-172-superlek-kiatmuu9-out-make-short-work-again-193-metre-nabil-anane-tokyo?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3303319/one-172-superlek-kiatmuu9-out-make-short-work-again-193-metre-nabil-anane-tokyo?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Mar 2025 07:23:57 +0000 With a six-foot frame, a pink mohawk, a matching bowler hat and a moustache straight out of Tombstone, Lyndon Knowles is hard to miss. But soon, it won’t be just his flamboyant look that turns heads – the WBC Muay Thai heavyweight champion is set to challenge Roman Kryklia for the ONE Championship heavyweight title at ONE Fight Night 30 in Bangkok on April 5. “I’m over the moon,” Knowles said. “Thanks to ONE Championship, I’m ready to put on a show.” A long-time teammate and training partner of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3302103/one-championship-flamboyant-lyndon-knowles-challenge-roman-kryklia-heavyweight-title?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3302103/one-championship-flamboyant-lyndon-knowles-challenge-roman-kryklia-heavyweight-title?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:21:36 +0000 Martyna Kierczynska made a powerful statement in her atomweight debut at ONE Fight Night 29 in Bangkok, securing a hard-fought split decision win over Hong Kong’s Yu Yau Pui. The Polish Muay Thai stand-out had already turned heads with a stunning debut victory over Nat “Wondergirl” Jaroonsak, but after falling short against Ekaterina Vandaryeva in her second outing, the move down to atomweight was a crucial step in her evolution as a fighter. “It was really tough,” she said in a post-fight... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3301667/one-fight-night-29-martyna-kierczynska-shows-intent-victory-over-hong-kongs-yu-yau-pui?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3301667/one-fight-night-29-martyna-kierczynska-shows-intent-victory-over-hong-kongs-yu-yau-pui?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 09 Mar 2025 05:54:03 +0000 Allycia Hellen Rodrigues delivered a statement performance at ONE Fight Night 29 in Bangkok, stopping Marie McManamon after four dominant rounds to successfully defend her ONE Women’s Atomweight Muay Thai world title. The Brazilian champion overwhelmed the debutant with a relentless barrage of strikes, securing her first finish in ONE Championship and earning a well-deserved US$50,000 performance bonus. “I feel so happy now. I’ve come back after breaking my hand. It’s been a year,” an emotional... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3301622/one-fight-night-29-rodrigues-delivers-statement-win-calls-out-phetjeeja-fairtex?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3301622/one-fight-night-29-rodrigues-delivers-statement-win-calls-out-phetjeeja-fairtex?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 08 Mar 2025 07:49:42 +0000 Hong Kong’s Yu Yau-pui is set to return to ONE Championship action in an atomweight clash with Poland’s Martyna Kierczynska at ONE Fight Night 29 on March 8. The event will be a significant night for women’s Muay Thai, with Allycia Hellen Rodrigues defending her atomweight title against Shir Cohen in the main event. Both Yu and Kierczynska will be looking to bounce back from their first defeats under the ONE Championship banner, when they face off at Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium. “I think our... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3300297/one-championship-hong-kong-star-yu-yau-pui-back-ring-one-fight-night-29?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3300297/one-championship-hong-kong-star-yu-yau-pui-back-ring-one-fight-night-29?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 27 Feb 2025 01:00:30 +0000 At 38 years old, Muay Thai icon Nong-O Hama is not ready to fade quietly into the shadows. Instead, the multiple-time world champion and the inaugural ONE Championship bantamweight Muay Thai king is making one final push for greatness – this time at flyweight. After losing three of his past four bouts at bantamweight, Nong-O is cutting down in weight for what he calls his “last dance”. His first test at flyweight comes at ONE Fight Night 28 on Saturday against Kongthoranee Sor Sommai, a highly... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3297769/one-fight-night-28-muay-thai-icon-nong-o-hama-ready-last-dance-flyweight?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3297769/one-fight-night-28-muay-thai-icon-nong-o-hama-ready-last-dance-flyweight?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 07 Feb 2025 07:16:55 +0000 Prajanchai PK Saenchai is a name synonymous with excellence in the world of Muay Thai and kickboxing. But as the reigning ONE Championship strawweight Muay Thai and kickboxing world champion prepares for ONE Fight Night 28 in Bangkok, it is not just his physical prowess that sets him apart – it is also his mindset. With a career spanning more than 400 bouts across various disciplines, Prajanchai is one of the sport’s living legends. His accolades speak for themselves: a two-time Lumpinee Stadium... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3297755/one-fight-night-28-what-sets-muay-thai-kickboxing-champion-prajanchai-pk-saenchai-apart?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3297755/one-fight-night-28-what-sets-muay-thai-kickboxing-champion-prajanchai-pk-saenchai-apart?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 07 Feb 2025 06:09:01 +0000 With three explosive finishes across three title fights in Bangkok, ONE 170 was a night to remember. It might even go down as one of the most exciting cards in ONE Championship history. But beyond the action in the ring, the event had a touch of Hollywood magic, with the crew of Russell Crowe’s latest film, Beast in Me, on-site filming scenes for the coming movie. The production’s grand finale was shot after ONE featherweight Muay Thai world champion Tawanchai PK Saenchai defended his title in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3296883/one-championship-russell-crowe-brings-touch-hollywood-magic-end-thrilling-one-170?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3296883/one-championship-russell-crowe-brings-touch-hollywood-magic-end-thrilling-one-170?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 31 Jan 2025 04:58:52 +0000 Bhakti Mathur Bhakti Mathur When Raeza Ibrahim was handed his medical report in December 2023 it read like a death sentence. He was diagnosed with high cholesterol and fatty liver, with a high risk of developing hypertension, diabetes and liver disease. And he weighed 100kg (220.5lbs), more than ever in his life. “The report was the wake-up call that I needed,” says the 38-year-old Singapore dispute resolution lawyer and co-founder of live music venue The Blackbird. “I was aware that I was overweight but had not imagined... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/article/3295977/how-26kg-weight-loss-gave-unhealthy-lawyer-singapore-his-life-and-happiness-back?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/article/3295977/how-26kg-weight-loss-gave-unhealthy-lawyer-singapore-his-life-and-happiness-back?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Jan 2025 23:45:08 +0000 Nabil Anane has solidified his reputation as one of the most fearsome strikers in combat sports with a sensational first-round TKO victory over Scotland’s Nico Carrillo to claim the ONE Interim Bantamweight Muay Thai World Championship. The 20-year-old Algerian-Thai, ranked fifth heading into the bout, delivered a masterclass in range control and striking precision to overwhelm the No 2 ranked Carrillo. The 6ft 4in Anane used his height and reach advantage to devastating effect, knocking down... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3296255/one-170-nabil-anane-strikes-down-nico-carrillo-take-muay-thai-belt-sensational-win?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3296255/one-170-nabil-anane-strikes-down-nico-carrillo-take-muay-thai-belt-sensational-win?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 25 Jan 2025 04:17:22 +0000 Bangkok’s Impact Arena will host a stacked card on January 24, as Johan and Jordan Estupinan prepare to showcase their skills on the global stage at ONE 170 on Friday. The Colombian twins, whose journey began in hardship, have captivated fans with their inspiring rise, flamboyant style and undeniable talent. For the Estupinan twins, the road to ONE Championship has been anything but easy. Born into adversity, their mother was forced to place them in an orphanage at a young age. Yet, even in the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3296111/one-championship-colombias-inspirational-estupinan-twins-taking-promotion-storm?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3296111/one-championship-colombias-inspirational-estupinan-twins-taking-promotion-storm?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 24 Jan 2025 06:22:06 +0000 For Freddie Haggerty, the spotlight has always felt like home. From his childhood days performing in London’s iconic West End to his current journey as a rising star in the combat sports world, the 20-year-old is ready to step into the global arena at ONE 170 when he takes on fellow debutant Jordan Estupiñán. Haggerty, the younger brother of British Muay Thai icon and two-time ONE Championship world title-holder Jonathan “The General” Haggerty, has carved his own path to the top. Earning a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3295943/one-championship-west-end-one-170-freddie-haggerty-ready-spotlight?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3295943/one-championship-west-end-one-170-freddie-haggerty-ready-spotlight?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 23 Jan 2025 07:11:38 +0000 When Johan Ghazali walks into a room, it’s clear there’s something special about him. The confidence and style are unmistakable, but behind the expensive sunglasses lie a relentless drive and work ethic that truly sets him apart. “When JoJo first came to the gym, I didn’t think he was that good,” the legendary fighter Superbon (116-36) told the Post with characteristic candour. “He was young, inexperienced – just one of many kids trying to make it in the sport. “But then I saw him train, and I... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3295929/one-championship-headline-act-superbon-tips-bright-future-breakout-star-jojo-ghazali?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3295929/one-championship-headline-act-superbon-tips-bright-future-breakout-star-jojo-ghazali?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 23 Jan 2025 05:49:51 +0000 Khabib fever is rumbling in Malaysia after the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) hall of famer announced he would set up a training gym in Johor, in a move that is set to draw legions of combat sports and fitness fans in the country and across the region. The undefeated Dagestan-born Khabib Nurmagomedov this week agreed to set up the gym in the Malaysian state following discussions in October between Johor Regent Ismail Ibrahim and the UFC superstar. It will be the Russian mixed martial arts... https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/people/article/3289711/malaysian-mma-fans-hail-ufc-legend-khabib-nurmagomedovs-plan-launch-johor-gym?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/people/article/3289711/malaysian-mma-fans-hail-ufc-legend-khabib-nurmagomedovs-plan-launch-johor-gym?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:49:33 +0000 The card for ONE 169 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on November 9 now appears to be complete with the addition of three fights, bringing the line-up to 12 bouts. Among this latest batch of matchups is an atomweight MMA bout that pits the experienced Ayaka Miura against undefeated newcomer Macarena Aragon. Miura started life with ONE Championship as a strawweight and challenged for that title in 2022, when she lost to champion Xiong Jing Nan by decision. The 34-year-old dropped down a division... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3284458/one-championship-ayaka-miura-v-macarena-aragon-2-other-bouts-complete-line-one-169?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3284458/one-championship-ayaka-miura-v-macarena-aragon-2-other-bouts-complete-line-one-169?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:07:45 +0000 ONE 170 is set for Impact Arena in Bangkok on January 24. It will also serve as the set for the filming of some scenes for The Beast in Me, an upcoming movie featuring Gladiator star Russell Crowe. Among the matches to have been confirmed so far are two title fights. The main event will be a rematch that features Tawanchai PKSaenchaigym putting his featherweight Muay Thai title on the line against Superbon Singha Mawynn. The two men first met at ONE Friday Fights 46 last December, with Tawanchai... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3283837/one-championship-tawanchai-pksaenchaigym-puts-title-line-scene-russell-crowe-film?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3283837/one-championship-tawanchai-pksaenchaigym-puts-title-line-scene-russell-crowe-film?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 25 Oct 2024 07:26:38 +0000 Rodtang Jitmuangnon has been here before. In 2022 he fought Jacob Smith at ONE 157 and claimed a lopsided decision win over the Englishman inside the cage in Singapore. Next month, he faces Smith again at ONE 169 in Bangkok – but a few things have changed. For one, Rodtang’s flyweight Muay Thai title will be on the line this time. For another, the two men will face off inside a ring, not a cage. However, one thing that has not changed, at least according to Rodtang, is his opponent. He feels... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3283654/one-championship-rodtang-jitmuangnon-wary-slow-durable-jacob-smith-title-bout?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/muay-thai/article/3283654/one-championship-rodtang-jitmuangnon-wary-slow-durable-jacob-smith-title-bout?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 24 Oct 2024 07:01:37 +0000 Chelsea fullback Reece James is known for sliding into tackles but this week the England international footballer slid into Rodtang Jitmuangnon’s DMs (direct messages) as well. James, 24, got in touch with the Muay Thai fighter to inquire about the possibility of training with him in Thailand. James is regarded as potentially one of the best full-backs in the world, but these days he spends more time on the treatment table than on the pitch – he has been sidelined by a series of hamstring... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3280096/one-championship-chelsea-defender-reece-james-asks-about-training-rodtang-jitmuangnon?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3280096/one-championship-chelsea-defender-reece-james-asks-about-training-rodtang-jitmuangnon?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 26 Sep 2024 11:46:29 +0000 When Takeru Segawa first signed with ONE Championship in early 2023, everyone assumed he would be facing Rodtang Jitmuangnon first. It was the fight the promotion wanted to see, but more than a year later, fans are still waiting for the two to face off. The bout was booked for ONE 165 in January but Rodtang withdrew because of an arm injury. He was replaced by Superlek Kiatmoo9, who beat Takeru convincingly in Tokyo, and the Japanese fighter has not competed since. Takeru is scheduled to fight... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3279930/one-championship-much-awaited-fight-between-takeru-rodtang-already-locked-says-ceo?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3279930/one-championship-much-awaited-fight-between-takeru-rodtang-already-locked-says-ceo?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:56:37 +0000 MMA is not a job for life. Very few fighters earn enough money to retire once they hang up the gloves, and as John Lineker comes towards the end of his career, he is already planning the next stage. Lineker, though, is not looking to transition into punditry or coaching, or any of the roles traditionally associated with the sport. Instead, he is making plans in a totally different industry, and fittingly, the man nicknamed ‘Hands of Stone’, has started a construction company. “It’s something... https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3277035/veteran-fighter-john-lineker-already-building-future-outside-one-championship?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3277035/veteran-fighter-john-lineker-already-building-future-outside-one-championship?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 03 Sep 2024 10:25:49 +0000