5 exciting martial arts ONE Championship has hosted besides MMA

Rodtang Jitmuangnon (L) and Demetrious Johnson (R) competed in a mixed-rules super fight earlier this year. | [Photo: ONE Championship]
Rodtang Jitmuangnon (L) and Demetrious Johnson (R) competed in a mixed-rules super fight earlier this year. | [Photo: ONE Championship]

#2. World championship kickboxing

ONE Championship has arguably the best roster of kickboxers in the world. Names like Giorgio Petrosyan, Superbon Singha Mawynn, and Nieky Holzken regularly showcase their talents in the circle.

World champions like Ilias Ennahachi, Hiroki Akimoto, Petchmorakot Petchyindee, Regian Eersel, Roman Kryklia, and Janet Todd have also produced some of the most exciting matches in the sport.

In 2019, the promotion put up the richest prize in kickboxing history when it gathered eight of the top talents in the globe for the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix. When the smoke cleared from the wars, it was Giorgio Petrosyan who stood tall to win the tournament and a cool US$1 million was a tasty icing on the huge cake.

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With the kickboxing roster consisting of world-class talents and legends, the possibilities of dream bouts are endless.


#1. ONE Championship's special-rules superfight

ONE Championship has not been afraid to innovate in its celebration of martial arts.

Earlier this year, they pitted together two absolute legends in their respective sports. Muay Thai superstar Rodtang Jitmuangnon faced all-time MMA great Demetrious Johnson in a mixed-rules superfight.

The bout featured two alternating rounds each of Muay Thai and MMA, which aimed to highlight the specialties of both fighters.

As expected, Rodtang dominated the Muay Thai round with his superior striking skills. However, Johnson surprisingly not only survived the round, but also held his own by putting in some offense.

In the second frame, 'Mighty Mouse' asserted his game and turned the lights out on the Thai icon with a slick rear-naked choke.

The exciting fight captured the world's attention, and fighters have since expressed their desire to compete under similar circumstances. Needless to say, fans have not seen the last of these superfights.

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Edited by Harvey Leonard
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