Superlek out, Nabil Anane-Nico Carrillo clash for interim bantamweight Muay Thai gold booked for ONE 170

Nabil Anane and Nico Carrillo will throw down for the ONE interim bantamweight Muay Thai world title at ONE 170 in light of Superlek Kiatmoo9's injury.

The reigning two-sport world champion was scheduled to defend his 26 pounds of gold against No.2-ranked Carrillo inside the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, on Jan. 24, but a knee injury forced him off the card. ONE confirmed the news on its site earlier today.

'King of the North' has been waiting for his crowning moment in the promotion over the past year, and though there is a slight change to that plan — fans can expect nothing less than another fiery display from the knockout specialist.

The Deachkalek Muay Thai Academy star has finished all his fights inside the distance against Furkan Karabag, Muangthai PK Saenchai, Nong-O Hama, and Saemapetch Fairtex. Whether it's his elbows, knees, or destructive fists, the bantamweight man knows how to put away anyone standing across him.

That penchant for a finish has made him an instant hit in the organization, and he can further elevate his status and build his brand with 26 pounds of gold wrapped around his waist.

Still, Nico Carrillo won't have any room for comfort as No.5-ranked Nabil Anane will undeniably be looking to catapult himself into stardom inside the Thai capital.

The Algerian-Thai phenom has been on a five-match winning streak, with highlight-reel triumphs over Nakrob Fairtex and Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai. His six-foot-four frame has been a nightmare to deal with, and he'll look to make the most of this advantage against one of the lankiest fighters in the bracket.

Already showcasing true world championship potential, this will be the make-or-break moment in the 20-year-old's career. However, the same can be said for Nico Carrillo, who wants nothing more than to reach the pinnacle of greatness at ONE 170.

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Nico Carrillo-Nabil Anane winner will go on to unify the gold vs Superlek at ONE 172

In the same piece, the promotion revealed that the winner of this colossal interim bantamweight Muay Thai world title showdown between Nico Carrillo and Anane will face divisional king 'The Kicking Machine' Superlek Kiatmoo9 at ONE 172 on March 23.

ONE's return to Japan in 2025, which takes place inside the Saitama Super Arena, will be headlined by a five-round flyweight kickboxing joust between two of the planet's biggest striking superstars Takeru Segawa and Rodtang Jitmuangon.

Also on the card, former divisional king and top-ranked Adriano Moraes runs it back with No.2-ranked Yuya Wakamatsu for the vacant ONE flyweight MMA world title.