“I didn't know what hit me” - Regian Eersel names opponent who hit him so hard he almost broke

Reigning and undisputed ONE lightweight Muay Thai world champion and former kickboxing king 'The Immortal' Regian Eersel of Suriname and The Netherlands has been one of the most dominant fighters in ONE Championship over the last few years. But lately, the 31-year-old Sityodtong Amsterdam product has shown some chinks in his armor.

However, it was his knockdown against Arian Sadikovic that Eersel says hurt the most. Speaking to MMA UK in a recent interview, Eersel talked about the moment he got hit with a knee by Sadikovic in the second round of their match at ONE 156 in April 2022.

'The Immortal' stated:

"Mentally, it was because I got the eight count off the knee against Arian [Sadikovic]. And to tell you honestly, I didn't know what hit me. So it was mentally confusing. I was like, I got eight counts, and in my head, I was like, ah, I'm behind on point, so I have to push the gas all the way."

Eersel eventually pieced together the puzzle and came back strong in the championship rounds to get the unanimous decision victory and retain his ONE lightweight kickboxing world title.

However, a new tormentor awaits as Eersel gets ready to run it back with another dangerous foe.

Regian Eersel to face Alexis Nicolas in highly anticipated rematch at ONE Fight Night 25 on Prime Video

'The Immortal' Regian Eersel wants his his ONE lightweight kickboxing world title back over his shoulders when he meets 'Barboza' Alexis Nicolas in a highly anticipated rematch.

The two lock horns at ONE Fight Night 25: Nicolas vs. Eersel II, which broadcasts live from the historic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, Oct. 4.

Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live and absolutely free on Amazon Prime Video. Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding the event.