French standout Alexis Nicolas made the most of his opportunity at ONE Fight Night 21 this past April when he challenged ONE lightweight kickboxing and Muay Thai world champion Regian Eersel for the 170-pound kickboxing crown.
'Barboza' entered the world title tilt with a ton of pressure on his shoulders as Eersel was on a 22-fight winning streak dating back to May 2016.
However, Nicolas surprised Eersel with his stellar ring generalship and chopping leg kicks, which led to the 26-year-old winning the ONE lightweight kickboxing world championship via unanimous decision.
Relive their five-round encounter below, which ONE shared on YouTube:
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Despite the shocking defeat to Nicolas, the Sityodtong Amsterdam product still holds the ONE lightweight Muay Thai world championship.
Nicolas will look to prevent 'The Immortal' from winning back the ONE lightweight kickboxing world championship in their world title rematch at ONE Fight Night 25 on Friday, Oct. 4, inside the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Alexis Nicolas shares his motivation ahead of Regian Eersel rematch
Alexis Nicolas is viewing his defense of the ONE lightweight kickboxing world championship against Regian Eersel at ONE Fight Night 25 as a make-or-break scenario for his career.
Speaking with ONE Championship, the Frenchman shared:
"I'm only 26 and I'm already the champ. I have to stay the champ. You know, life is full of ups and downs. So I need to punch my way to wins, get bonus, get more money, be more famous, and win over fans and everybody. Then, everything will be good for me."
ONE Fight Night 25 will air live and free to all Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.