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The Thai champion vacates his ONE world title after a serious right knee injury
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Published 18 days ago

The Thai champion vacates his ONE world title after a serious right knee injury

Superlek, one of the most feared strikers in combat sports history, has announced the end of his ONE Championship reign after a serious right knee injury.

To remember:

  • Superlek vacates his ONE world flyweight kickboxing title due to a torn ACL suffered in his fight against Abdulla Dayakaev in August 2024.
  • The Thai champion, nicknamed "The Kicking Machine," boasts an impressive record of 139 wins and 33 losses, with spectacular KOs over legends like Jonathan Haggerty and Takeru Segawa.
  • His rehabilitation is expected to take between 9 and 12 months, ending a streak of 15 wins in 16 fights and his dual reign in Muay Thai and kickboxing.

A Champion at His Peak Sidelined by Injury

Superlek, one of the most iconic figures in striking sports, has announced the end of his reign in ONE Championship after a serious right knee injury. At 30 years old, the Thai fighter, nicknamed "The Kicking Machine", vacates his ONE world flyweight kickboxing title due to a torn ACL, suffered in his last fight against Abdulla Dayakaev in August 2024. A tough decision for the two-time world champion, who made history by simultaneously dominating Muay Thai and kickboxing within the organization.


A Legendary Career Before the Break

With an impressive record of 139 wins and 33 losses, Superlek leaves behind an exceptional career. His explosive style and spectacular KOs have left a mark, particularly his victories over legends like Jonathan Haggerty and Takeru Segawa. Between 2022 and 2024, he racked up 15 wins in 16 fights, confirming his dominance in striking sports. But this streak came to an abrupt halt with this injury, forcing him to put his career on hold for 9 to 12 months of rehabilitation.


An Uncertain Future, But a Legacy Already Secured

While Superlek made history as one of the rare athletes to reign simultaneously in Muay Thai and kickboxing, his return remains uncertain. The length of his recovery raises doubts about his ability to return to his former level. Yet, his legacy is already secure: that of an extraordinary fighter, capable of taking down the best with ruthless efficiency. Fans worldwide hope to see him come back stronger, but for now, a chapter is closing for "The Kicking Machine."

Superlek’s hiatus is a stark reminder of how fragile combat sports careers can be, where a single injury can change everything.
Editor's Opinion
By Nakmen
Damn, Superlek—it’s like Batman having to hang up his mask after a fight with Bane, but in kickboxing form. 139 wins, a sick record, and boom, an ACL tear forces him into a 9-12 month break. Too bad, because he had the style of a Disney villain who tears through everyone in his path, but hey, injuries are like the dragons in Jurassic Park: they still show up. His legacy is already set in stone, but there’s still a bit of nostalgia… We hope he comes back, because a world without Superlek is like an OSS 117 without his hat: less fun. 😅
Article written by SkimAI
Reviewed and completed by Nakmen

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