Japan's martial arts excellence was on full display at ONE 173 on 16 November, with multiple homegrown heroes delivering memorable performances, including Nadaka claiming inaugural gold and Kana Morimoto upsetting a legendary former champion.
Nadaka captured the first-ever ONE Atomweight Muay Thai World Championship with a masterful unanimous decision victory over Thailand's Numsurin Chor Ketwina in their five-round title fight at Ariake Arena in Tokyo.
The 24-year-old Muay Thai specialist showcased why he's considered a generational talent, landing devastating strikes with surgical precision throughout the bout to extend his incredible winning streak to 40 straight victories.
After making history, the 10-time Muay Thai World Champion reflected on the significance of capturing the belt.
"ONE Championship gold is not just coveted among strikers, but also among MMA fighters and everybody around the world. And to be a part of that elite group has made me very happy," Nadaka said.
Meanwhile, Morimoto authored a career-defining performance by defeating former three-sport ONE World Champion Stamp Fairtex via unanimous decision in their atomweight kickboxing bout.
The 33-year-old four-time K-1 Champion handed the Thai superstar her first defeat since returning from a two-year absence caused by a knee injury that required extensive rehabilitation and forced her to vacate her ONE Atomweight MMA World Title.
Morimoto acknowledged the challenge of facing a motivated Stamp despite the lengthy layoff.
"Despite having that time off, and having the ring rust, I was happy that Stamp came in in incredible condition," the Japanese veteran stated.
The victory came after Morimoto made crucial tactical adjustments following a feeling-out process in the opening frame.
"It was in the first round that I started to adjust my distance and kind of get [in rhythm], and I felt that in the second and third rounds, if I had a chance, I would have been able to put her out," Morimoto revealed.
Nadaka's historic title conquest combined with Morimoto's upset victory over a three-division champion created an unforgettable night for Japanese martial arts, proving their fighters can compete with and defeat the world's absolute best.
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