ONE Championship is set to make a grand return to Japan with an action-packed fight card. The highly anticipated event, ONE 165, will feature a lightweight bout between former UFC star Sage Northcutt and MMA legend Shinya Aoki. Fans can expect an adrenaline-pumping showdown as these two fighters go head-to-head under MMA rules on January 28.
In addition to the Northcutt vs. Aoki clash, the main event of ONE 165 will showcase a five-round flyweight kickboxing match. ONE flyweight Muay Thai champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon will face off against Japanese kickboxer Takeru Segawa. This thrilling matchup guarantees a display of high-level striking skills and a battle for supremacy in the flyweight division.
The much-anticipated event is scheduled to take place at the prestigious Ariake Arena, a venue known for hosting iconic sports events in Tokyo. ONE Championship’s return to Japan marks a significant milestone for the Singapore-based promotion, as it will be their first show in the country since 2019. Japanese fans are eagerly awaiting the chance to witness world-class martial arts action once again.
Takeru Segawa, known as a major star in Japan, has already drawn immense crowds to his kickboxing matches. In June 2022, his bout against Tenshin Nasukawa at the Tokyo Dome attracted an impressive audience of 56,399 spectators. Now, Segawa will aim to capitalize on his popularity and make a statement against the formidable Rodtang Jitmuangnon.
Sage Northcutt, on the other hand, brings his flashy kicks and electric offense to the ONE Championship stage. A longtime karate practitioner, Northcutt is known for his dynamic fighting style and highlight-reel finishes. Despite his setbacks, including complications from COVID-19 and facial fractures suffered in his ONE debut, Northcutt made a triumphant return in May with a 39-second submission victory.
Meanwhile, Shinya Aoki, a 20-year veteran of the sport, was once regarded as one of the best grappling specialists in MMA. Having held multiple lightweight titles in various promotions, including ONE Championship, he poses a significant challenge for Northcutt. Aoki’s experience and technical prowess make him a formidable opponent for any fighter in the lightweight division.
Both Northcutt and Aoki have faced trials and tribulations on their respective journeys. Northcutt’s recovery from COVID-19 complications and facial fractures is a testament to his resilience and determination to succeed. Aoki, who has suffered two consecutive losses, will be looking to bounce back and prove that he is still a force to be reckoned with.
As ONE Championship returns to Japan, fans across the globe can anticipate an evening filled with heart-pounding action, jaw-dropping moments, and unforgettable displays of skill. The Northcutt vs. Aoki bout and the Jitmuangnon vs. Segawa clash are just two of the exciting matchups that await us on January 28. The stage is set, and the fighters are ready to leave it all inside the ONE Championship circle. Brace yourself for an unforgettable night of martial arts excellence.
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