Regian Eersel may no longer be the ONE Lightweight Kickboxing World Champion after failing to make weight and hydration for his match at ONE Fight Night 30, but he still put forth a championship performance against Alexis Nicolas.
Their trilogy bout went all five rounds, and after the final bell it was “The Immortal” who did enough for the majority decision win.
“I got some clean shots. I hit him with a few kicks and punches. The game plan worked, as you saw. He got the eight-count in the same round. It went well,” Eersel said after the event.
The thin line between confidence and cockiness has always been a staple from Eersel. It was still evident following the win, as he reflected on his performance.
“I was not surprised, because I know he was dropping his right hand the moment he turned to kick or punch. So the left hook was definitely in the game plan,” Eersel said.
“He couldn't defend it good. He smelled my foot, you know?”
The knockdown was the tipping point for the Surinamese star, who was confident he could sit his rival down after breaking his will during their match.
“The knockdown in the second round was very important for the victory,” Eersel said.
“But yeah, he was well prepared, so he stood up before the eight count [was up]. So it was no surprise for me. But yeah, I know for sure that was a turn in the fight and that way I secured the win.”
In the wake of losing his gold belt, Eersel’s performance was more about showcasing his positive mindset and not allowing a misstep to define him. He maintained that was his biggest win after the show’s close.
“Every fight, we were close, but you know, I showed the world why I'm the king of the division, and why I'm a better fighter, mentally,” Eersel said.
“Mentally, I had to stay strong. When you are in pain, when you have all the pressure on yourself. I showed the world that I am a true warrior.”
Leave a comment
Please login to leave a comment.