5 reasons to watch ONE: NextGen II

#2. Intense showdown between ONE featherweights

Back to mixed martial arts action, the ONE featherweight division is arguably the promotion’s most stacked in terms of talent. And if you’re looking for a thrilling matchup between absolute killers, Tang Kai versus Yoon Chang Min will most certainly satisfy your craving.

Tang Kai is one of the most powerful featherweights in the promotion, and his 10 knockouts out of 12 wins is evidence of that.

Since joining ONE Championship, Tang Kai has won all four of his bouts, defeating top contenders Sung Jong Lee, Edward Kelly, Keanu Subba, and Ryogo Takahashi. He’s currently riding a seven-fight winning streak, which extends back to his days with Rebel FC.

Meanwhile, Yoon Chang Min is also on a tear, winning five of his first six fights as a professional. But while Tang Kai is a dangerous striker, Yoon Chang Min is a masterful grappler, with four submissions out of his five wins.

Both of these guys are looking to break into the top five at featherweight, and this might be the stage where they could do just that. Only one man can exit the Circle with the victory, though. So may the best man win.

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#1. The return of former ONE world title challenger Saemapetch

There’s no doubt who the premiere attraction at ONE: NextGen II is, and that’s former ONE world title challenger Saemapetch Fairtex. That’s the reason why he’s in the main event against Rittewada, an equally exciting striker who should bring out the best in him.

Saemapetch is 123-16-1 in his career, which is an astonishing number, considering how often he fights. At just 27 years of age, he has years of elite competition ahead of him. He’s also grown tremendously since his loss to reigning ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion Nong-O Gaiyanghadao in 2019, having since recorded three wins, including two knockouts.

Rittewada, on the other hand, comes from the famed Petchyindee Academy and is making his ONE Super Series debut.

Both Saemapetch and Rittewada are looking to earn a crack at Nong-O.

Saemapetch is currently the No. 1 contender in the division, so he has more to lose than Rittewada. But if he can emerge victorious, it will certainly strengthen his case for a rematch with his legendary senior. On the flipside, Rittewada beating Saemapetch would instantly catapult him into the division’s top contender spot.