In a much-anticipated event, ONE 172 took place on March 23, 2025, at the Saitama Super Arena, featuring a series of high-stakes matches. The event was headlined by a title fight between Nabil Anane and Superlek Kiatmoo9 for the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Championship, showcasing powerful athletes from various disciplines.
Nabil Anane, the current interim champion, faced Superlek, who has a storied past as the formal champion. Their fight marked a significant rematch, as Anane had previously suffered a swift defeat at the hands of Superlek two years prior.
Entering the venue, Anane was fueled with the fire of revenge. Reflecting on his last match against Superlek, he stated, “Two years ago, I was just a boy with no experience. I have learned so much since then, and now I feel completely different.” This sentiment not only highlights his growth as a fighter but also sets the stage for an epic showdown that fans eagerly anticipated.
The card also featured a variety of other notable bouts, including the controversial cancellation of the fight between Marat Grigorian and Kaiman due to Grigorian missing the weight limit, a decision that angered many in the audience who were eager to see the matchup.
The stakes were elevated further as Superlek, just a few pounds over the weight requirement, found his championship bout transformed from a five-round championship into a three-round regular match, impacting the dynamics of the fight. His failure resulted in the forfeiture of thirty percent of his fight purse, which was awarded to Anane. “It’s frustrating,” Superlek lamented, “but I will give my all to secure the victory.”
In addition, Rak Erawan squared off against Yoshinari Nadaka in a Muay Thai clash that promised fireworks. Nadaka, a rising star, showed impressive skill and determination. He asserted his goals for the fight, stating, “I am here to prove that I belong among the best.” Fans witnessed the young fighter rise to the occasion, delivering a powerful performance.
Other significant matches included Shinya Aoki’s fight against Eduard Folayang, which Aoki declared would be his last match in ONE, adding an emotional layer to the bout. “I want to make this last match memorable,” he expressed before the fight, sparking motivation and nostalgia among his supporters.
As the excitement mounted with each passing match, observers noted the intensity and vigor of the fighters as they battled not just for victory but for respect and history. Fans filled the Saitama Super Arena, their cheers echoing the spirit of competition that ignited the ring.
Another fan-favorite, Takeru, was set to collide with Rodtang Jitmuangnon. Takeru emphasized the importance of the match stating, “This is the culmination of my career, and I intend to leave everything in the ring.” With Takeru’s impressive record and Rodtang’s rich history, the arena buzzed with anticipation, marking this bout as a must-watch event.
In a dramatic turn, the match lineup was altered due to weigh-in issues. Newly formatted and shuffled fights created a dynamic atmosphere, and as multiple champions faced off, it led to higher stakes and electrifying encounters.
As the event closed, it became evident that ONE 172 was not just a competition; it was a showcase of resilience, skill, and personal growth. Fighters like Nabil Anane emerged not only as champions in their weight classes but as symbols of determination and change.
What transpired at the Saitama Super Arena was a celebration of martial arts culture and a profound display of the fighters' devotion to their craft. With the echoes of victory and defeat still resonating among the crowd, fans were left both satisfied and eager for future matches.
The event not only highlighted the individual journeys of the fighters but also reflected upon the community they represent. As they strive against such intense pressures, they inspire others to rise and engage in their own battles, whether in sports, life, or beyond.
In reflecting upon the night’s action, it’s clear that ONE 172 will be talked about for years to come. The memories forged in the battle encapsulated the essence of what competitive fighting stands for: honor, challenge, and the relentless quest for greatness.
