ONE Championship confirms return of Singapore MMA events starting with Reign of Dynasties
- Asian martial arts organisation to host first show in home city since February on October 9
- Event could pave way for other sports to return to Singapore, says tourism board
ONE Championship has confirmed it will return to hosting events in Singapore, starting with Friday’s Reign of Dynasties behind closed doors at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
The Asian martial arts organisation has not held a show in its home city since February, following the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. It was able to stage some events in Bangkok in July and August, but the cards could only be made up of locally based fighters because of Covid-19 restrictions.
Most of the fighters making up October 9’s card are based out of Singapore, but Australians Josh Tonna and Reece McLaren will be flying in to compete in the main event and co-main event respectively. Tonna takes on strawweight Muay Thai champ Sam-A Gaiyanghadao, while No 5-ranked MMA flyweight McLaren (13-7) takes on undefeated Aleksi Toivonon (7-0).
“I am thrilled to announce that ONE: Reign of Dynasties this Friday October 9 will be the first of many international events in Singapore!” ONE chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong wrote in a Facebook post on Sunday night.
“Thank you to the Singapore government for entrusting me and my team to lead the way as the first international production of any kind (in sports, music, and/or entertainment) to return since borders closed earlier this year due to Covid-19. We are ready to ignite the world on fire!!! Stay tuned for big news!”