Masaaki Noiri made headlines on March 23, 2025, as he claimed the ONE Interim Featherweight Kickboxing World Championship after a thrilling bout against Tawanchai at the Saitama Super Arena. The match was a showcase of striking skill, with Noiri emerging victorious through a third-round knockout.
In a fight that captivated fans, Noiri displayed resilience after previously struggling in the ONE championship. After losing his debut against Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong in June 2024, and suffering another defeat to Mehdy Zatout later that year, many questioned his future. However, the former K-1 two-division champion rebounded spectacularly. In January 2025, he scored a remarkable TKO victory against Shakiel Taghlaouti, reigniting his career.
As the opening bell rang in Saitama, fans erupted in excitement. Tawanchai started strong, utilizing his impressive reach to keep Noiri at bay with effective middle kicks. Nevertheless, Noiri retaliated with powerful leg kicks, both fighters exchanging blows in a contest of incredible intensity.
The second round saw the tide turn; Noiri landed a blistering punch that knocked Tawanchai down twice, establishing control. The crowd buzzed at every strike, each sound reverberating through the venue. Tawanchai rallied back briefly, pushing Noiri in a clear sign of the professional tension in the match.
In the third round, Noiri intensified his assault. Following his second-round success, he combined various offensive techniques, showcasing mid and knee strikes effectively. He pushed forward, landing a critical punch that sent Tawanchai to the canvas. Although Tawanchai rose from the knockdown, the damage was apparent. Noiri then surged, landing another punch to inflict a second knockdown which led the referee to stop the fight.
Post-fight, an ecstatic Noiri shared his emotions, exclaiming, "This is amazing!" He expressed gratitude toward his team and family, revealing how pivotal their support had been through his ups and downs. The high point of the night came when ONE's CEO, Chatri Sityodtong, announced a special bonus of $50,000 for Noiri. The fighter enthusiastically remarked, "I want to go on a trip with my family" as he envisioned using part of the reward for family travel.
Noiri’s victory not only secured him a championship belt but also highlighted his resurgence in kickboxing's toughest arena. Fans and pundits alike are now considering him a formidable competitor in the weeks ahead. With his new championship title in hand, Noiri's next steps could redefine his career trajectory.
