Superlek Kiatmoo9, known as ‘The Kicking Machine,’ solidified his legendary status in Muay Thai by delivering a spectacular knockout to Britain’s Jonathan ‘The General’ Haggerty in the first round of ONE 168 in Denver.
The ONE Flyweight Kickboxing world champion entered the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, determined to demonstrate why he is considered a top pound-for-pound striker. He did just that, in impressive fashion.
Superlek captured Haggerty’s ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai world title, becoming a two-division world champion for the organization at their second event in the United States.
Despite facing early pressure from Haggerty, who came out aggressively with left straights and low kicks, Superlek remained composed and relied on his strategic approach.
Instead of reacting impulsively, Superlek, a master of Muay Femur style, expertly set a trap for his opponent.
Haggerty took the bait and attacked with a right punch. Superlek dodged the blow and countered instantly with a powerful right elbow. The force of the elbow, combined with Haggerty’s momentum, sent the British fighter crashing to the mat.
Haggerty bravely tried to get back to his feet, but he could not beat the referee’s count, awarding Superlek the knockout victory within just 49 seconds of the fight.
This victory marks Superlek’s 11th consecutive win in ONE Championship, improving his overall record to an impressive 139-29.
The new two-sport champion also earned a $50,000 performance bonus from ONE Chairman Chatri Sityodtong and ended Haggerty’s six-fight win streak.
Harrison Loses, Lineker Scores Brutal Stoppage
In another fight, Britain’s Liam ‘Hitman’ Harrison was defeated by Seksan ‘The Man Who Yields To No One’ Or Kwanmuang.
As expected, they engaged in an exciting, back-and-forth battle in their 140-pound catchweight Muay Thai match.
Harrison landed strong strikes early in the fight, but Seksan absorbed them and applied his signature relentless pressure.
Seksan maintained the high pace in the second round, landing heavy body kicks and looping punches. He knocked Harrison down twice before finishing the fight with an overhand punch at 1:49 of the second round.
This thrilling victory improved Seksan’s record to an incredible 202-75.
John Lineker, former ONE Bantamweight MMA world champion, also secured a victory. His powerful striking led him to a win against Asa ‘The American Ninja’ Ten Pow in their bantamweight Muay Thai fight.
Lineker’s aggression was relentless, and a right hook to the jaw dropped Ten Pow at 2:50 of the second round, giving Lineker his first Muay Thai victory.
Marcus Bellamy