In a highly anticipated event held on March 23, 2025, at Saitama Super Arena, the world of mixed martial arts witnessed the official weigh-in and face-off for ONE 172: TAKERU vs. RODTANG, thrilling fans with a glimpse of the upcoming matchups.
The weigh-in took place at 17:00 local time, with the earlier morning session starting at 10:00 AM, where several fighters showcased their physical conditioning. However, it wasn't without its hiccups. Notably, Superlek Kiatmoo9 from Thailand and Sryianlek Petchjaroenvit also from Thailand, among others, failed to pass the hydration tests, leading to some tension as they prepared for their fights.
Tetsuya Aoki of Japan, who will be facing veteran fighter Eduard Folayang from the Philippines, demonstrated remarkable form by passing his hydration test with a value of 1.0009 and weighing 75.86 kg. On the other hand, Folayang weighed in at 76.54 kg with a hydration level of 1.0049, setting the stage for a compelling matchup between these two athletes who have battled each other three times before.
Aoki had previously declared that this would be his final match in ONE Championship, which adds emotional weight to the upcoming bout. As they faced off, Aoki smiled warmly, and Folayang reciprocated the gesture, hinting at a strong mutual respect despite the fierce nature of their competition.
Former ONE Lightweight champion Folayang expressed confidence, stating, “I’m looking forward to this fight; Aoki has always pushed me to be better and just brings so much excitement whenever we compete.” The comradery of these two fighters was palpable during the face-off, a stark contrast to the high emotions that often accompany such events.
Among the headline fights, the much-anticipated clash between Takeru and Rodtang brought fans to a fever pitch. Takeru weighed in at 61.12 kg with a hydration level of 1.0095, while Rodtang weighed in slightly lighter at 60.89 kg, achieving a hydration level of 1.0083. The stakes are high as both fighters are known for their thrilling styles and fan-friendly performances.
While not all fighters met the hydration standards required, those who did prepared to take part in the evening’s festivities. Superlek Kiatmoo9, after failing his hydration test, now faces Nabil Anane in a non-title catchweight bout instead, and the tension from the weigh-in lingered through the face-off as both fighters exchanged intense stares.
Marat Grigorian, another competitor, showed his tenacity in the face-off against Hiroto, staring him down aggressively, which neither fighter backed down from as they prepared for their own battles.
The weigh-in results demonstrated athletes who brought a blend of skill and preparation to the arena. Adhering to strict regulations set by ONE Championship, fighters shown here include Adriano Moraes from Brazil, who weighed in at 60.89 kg and demonstrated a hydration level of 1.0091, and Yuya Wakamatsu from Japan, weighing in at 60.78 kg with a hydration level of 1.0074.
The event set the tone for the fights to follow, where Jonathan Di Bella of Italy/Canada and Sam-A Gaiyanghadao of Thailand both stood ready with Di Bella weighing in at 56.24 kg and a hydration level of 1.0112, while Gaiyanghadao tipped the scales at 56.35 kg, struggling slightly with a hydration level of 1.0214.
The fighters' collective experience shone through as they navigated the often tumultuous atmosphere of weigh-ins. They leveraged mental toughness along with physical endurance that embodies the spirit of mixed martial arts and the culture of ONE Championship.
As the fighters gathered for the face-offs, many displayed their own unique styles—KANA and Petchjeeja Lukjaoporongtom brought their contrasting energies to their face-off, which further hyped this dynamic card.
Overall, the weigh-ins not only carried significant weight in terms of competition but also fostered narratives of rivalry and respect amongst the combatants. The fighters' readiness and determination were evident in every interaction, leading to tantalizing prospects for fight night.
Tomorrow’s event promises to be a landmark night for ONE Championship, with each fight offering a unique storyline and stakes for the competitors involved. Tetsuya Aoki’s emotional journey culminating in his final bout encapsulates not just a career but the heart and soul of martial arts.
As the fighters prepare to enter the arena, the fans await, eager not just to witness the skills on display but to see how the myriad of stories plays out in what is expected to be an electrifying evening at Saitama Super Arena.
