Superlek breaks down his win at ONE 168 against Jonathan Haggerty

LockerRoom Team

12 Sep 2024

At ONE 168: Denver, held at Ball Arena in Colorado on September 6, Superlek Kiatmoo9 showcased his remarkable skills with a first-round knockout of Jonathan Haggerty. The Thai fighter, known as “The Kicking Machine,” defeated Haggerty in just 49 seconds to claim the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title.

Aims and Achievements

Before his U.S. debut, Superlek sought to demonstrate the power and skill of Muay Thai to North American fans. His performance not only fulfilled this goal but also earned him the title of a two-sport ONE World Champion, adding to his flyweight kickboxing title.

“I wanted to show that Thai fighters possess exceptional strength and skill,” Superlek said. The bout, expected to be a close contest between two skilled strikers, saw Superlek deliver a decisive elbow strike that ended the fight swiftly.

Preparation and Strategy

Superlek had anticipated this outcome, having studied his opponent’s weaknesses. He explained his strategy: “I realized that fighting with a slow, methodical style would not work. I opted for a faster, more aggressive approach and ended it quickly. The elbow strike was something I specifically trained for, knowing it would reach its target faster than a cross.”

Impact and Reception

Superlek’s impressive victory and performance at ONE 168: Denver not only crowned him as a two-division champion but also garnered him a new wave of fans. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and aimed to showcase the excitement and skill of Muay Thai to a global audience.

“I am very thankful for this chance. I want everyone to see how thrilling Muay Thai is—the danger, the excitement, everything about it,” he said.

Future Prospects

The enthusiastic reception Superlek received in Denver has prompted ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong to consider future opportunities for the Thai star in the U.S. market. Sityodtong remarked on the unexpected ovation Superlek received compared to Haggerty and suggested a potential rematch with Rodtang Jitmuangnon in the U.S.

“It is possible that we will see Rodtang versus Superlek II in the U.S.,” Sityodtong said. “This fight, featuring two of the best strikers on the planet, would attract global attention. Fans want to witness the pinnacle of striking arts, regardless of the fighters’ nationalities.”