Superbon And Masaaki Noiri Ready For Featherweight World Title Unification Showd

Tokyo's Ariake Arena will witness kickboxing history on 16 November when two of the sport's most accomplished champions settle the featherweight division's ultimate question.

During this week's ONE 173 press conference, both Superbon and Masaaki Noiri revealed the motivations driving them toward their ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Title unification clash.

The Japanese interim champion couldn't hide his enthusiasm for an opportunity that seemed impossible just years ago when he struggled through his early ONE Championship appearances.

His genuine appreciation for the moment was evident as he reflected on the journey ahead.

"The fact that I will be fighting against Superbon will be more exciting," Noiri said. "He's been there since I first started with ONE Championship, and to be fighting against him in a grand platform, I'm very grateful to everybody who made this happen for me, especially Mr. Chatri for making this come true."

For Superbon, the unification represents more than just another title defence. The Thai champion views this bout through the lens of legacy and future opportunities.

"I think this fight is going to prove once again that I am a top athlete. I feel that as the champion, it's important for me to win this fight," Superbon said. "And then I want to go back to the rematch against Tawanchai. So I cannot lose this fight for sure."

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The mutual respect between both champions became apparent when they assessed each other's abilities.

Noiri acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, "I think Superbon is a great athlete, and my impression is he will probably be stronger or more competitive than Tawanchai."

Superbon's response balanced acknowledgment with unwavering confidence: "I saw that fight and I think Noiri has a lot more experience, more than Tawanchai in kickboxing. But against me, it's different. I have a lot of experience in kickboxing. I'm the best in kickboxing, and I will be the best."