Exciting new fights added to ONE 165: Superlek vs. Takeru

13 January 2024

Excitement is reaching its peak for the highly anticipated ONE 165: Superlek vs. Takeru event, set to take place at the Ariake Arena on Sunday, January 28. The blockbuster card has just added a unique special rules super-fight and two thrilling kickboxing battles to its lineup.

In an innovative twist, the special rules super-fight will feature a three-round showdown between the renowned kickboxing world champion, Nieky “The Natural” Holzken, and the MMA legend, Yoshihiro “Sexyama” Akiyama. Holzken, known for his striking prowess in Muay Thai, kickboxing, and boxing, will clash with Akiyama, a judo gold medalist who transitioned seamlessly into MMA, securing the K-1 HERO’s Light Heavyweight Grand Prix Tournament Championship.

The special rules super-fight promises a dynamic spectacle as each competitor will wear 4-ounce gloves. The first round will be contested under boxing rules, the second under Muay Thai rules, and the third under MMA rules. Akiyama, having secured knockout victories in his last two ONE Championship bouts, faces the challenge of Holzken's formidable striking skills. The unique format adds an extra layer of intrigue to this clash of titans.

In a kickboxing showdown for the ages, Marat Grigorian and Sitthichai “Killer Kid” Sitsongpeenong will renew their intense rivalry in a catchweight affair. Despite Sitthichai leading the series 4-1, Grigorian claimed the victory in their last meeting in May 2019 for the Glory Lightweight World Title. The stakes are high for both fighters as they aim to make a run at the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Championship.

Meanwhile, the heavyweight action features Serbian sensation Rade Opacic taking on the Iranian behemoth Iraj Azizpour. Opacic, with an impressive 6-1 record in ONE, seeks to solidify his rising star status, while Azizpour, aiming for redemption after his recent defeat, eyes a potential fourth encounter with Roman Kryklia, fueling the flames of kickboxing's next great rivalry.

ONE 165: Superlek vs. Takeru promises an unforgettable night of combat sports, with a unique blend of special rules and intense kickboxing battles that will captivate fans worldwide.

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