Superbon Reclaims ONE Featherweight Kickboxing Title

Superbon Singha Mawynn reclaimed the undisputed ONE featherweight kickboxing world championship with a unanimous decision victory over interim titleholder Masaaki Noiri in the main event of ONE 173 on Sunday at Tokyo's Ariake Arena. The Thai striker, a former champion known for his technical prowess, outpointed the Japanese contender over five rounds in a closely contested unification bout that drew criticism from fans for Superbon's frequent clinching, a move prohibited in kickboxing rules.

The event, which featured 17 matchups across mixed martial arts, kickboxing and Muay Thai, marked ONE Championship's return to Japan with a stacked card headlined by title fights. Superbon, 35, entered the bout as the reigning champion and used his superior distance management and counters to frustrate Noiri, who had earned the interim belt with a stunning comeback TKO against Tawanchai PK Saenchai earlier in the year. Despite Noiri's aggressive pressure and the support of the home crowd, judges scored the fight 49-46, 48-47 and 49-46 in favor of Superbon. Referee Olivier Coste issued a verbal warning to Superbon for repeated clinches but did not deduct points, prompting frustration among...