ONE Lightweight Muay Thai World Champion Regian Eersel admitted his stunning 84-second knockout of George Jarvis completely contradicted his pre-fight strategy and has him ready for an immediate return to action.
The Dutch-Surinamese fighter destroyed the British challenger's title dreams at ONE Fight Night 34 on 2 August, earning a US$50,000 performance bonus for the spectacular finish at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium.
Eersel revealed that the rapid knockout was the opposite of what he had planned for the main event showdown.
"No, I didn't expect this to go this fast. My game plan was to drag him to the fourth and fifth rounds and get the finish there," the champion explained during the post-event press conference.
The quick victory has significant implications for Eersel's championship schedule, with the titleholder expressing immediate availability.
"I can be back in two months, three months, four months. So it's up to ONE Championship," Eersel stated.
Eersel attributed the swift finish to his opponent's miscalculation regarding his knockout power, despite his lean frame suggesting otherwise.
"From the fight, I think he underestimated me, also my power. I think maybe he thought, like yeah, I'm a tall, skinny guy, I don't hit very hard. So yeah, I think he underestimated me," he said.
The performance bonus carries special meaning for Eersel, who revealed the fight took place on his first wedding anniversary. The unexpected windfall will fund a family celebration that was already planned.
"I'm planning to spend it on my family. I have two kids and a wife at home. Actually, today's my anniversary, the first year I'm married. So yeah, I think I'm gonna buy my wife a little present and go on a holiday or something, and then back to work," Eersel declared.
The dominant title defense further establishes Eersel's reputation as the division's most dangerous finisher.
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