In a thrilling announcement that promises to elevate the action at ONE 170, reigning bantamweight champion Fabricio Andrade is set to defend his title for the first time against the South Korean contender Won Il Kwon. Scheduled for January 24, 2024, at Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, this match-up not only garners interest due to Andrade’s championship status but also because it pits him against a familiar foe. With a fight card that sets the stage for Asian primetime television, fans can brace themselves for an explosive evening of mixed martial arts (MMA).
Fabricio Andrade’s Rise in ONE Championship
Andrade’s journey to the title reached new heights in February 2023, when he claimed the bantamweight championship by defeating John Lineker at ONE on Prime Video 7. The fight concluded in dramatic fashion, as Lineker’s corner called for a stoppage after the fourth round due to significant damage to his eye. This victory highlighted Andrade’s striking prowess and overall skill in the octagon. However, 27-year-old Andrade’s aspirations for a dual-sport championship were briefly derailed during his kickboxing bout against Jonathan Haggerty, in which he suffered a second-round stoppage. This recent setback has undoubtedly intensified his motivation to defend his MMA title successfully.
On the other side of the ring stands Won Il Kwon, a formidable opponent with a professional record of 14 wins and 4 losses. After he was bested in their first encounter at ONE Championship 158 in June 2022, Kwon has been on a roll, securing victories over his last three opponents, including a significant second-round finish against Shinechagtga Zoltsetseg. The South Korean fighter is a blend of determination and skill, making him a dangerous challenger when he steps into the cage against Andrade once more.
The impending matchup between Andrade and Kwon serves as the main event of a stacked card at ONE 170. Other noteworthy clashes include Tawanchai PK Saenchai taking on Superbon Banchamek for the muay Thai lightweight title, along with Superlek Kiatmoo9 battling Nico Carrillo for the muay Thai featherweight title. Additional bouts featuring Saeksan Or Kwanmuang against Soe Lin Oo, and Suriyanlek Por Yenying versus Thant Zin round out an event that is poised to delight MMA enthusiasts.
As Andrade prepares to face Kwon in an anticipated rematch, a wealth of storylines weave together in the fabric of ONE 170. The stakes are undeniably high for both fighters, with Andrade looking to solidify his status as a dominant champion, while Kwon seeks to prove that he can rise to the occasion and claim the bantamweight title. For fans and supporters back home, the event promises not just the thrill of competition but also the rich narratives that define the sport. As the excitement builds toward January 24, ONE Championship is once again set to deliver a mesmerizing night of fights that could redefine the trajectory of its athletes’ careers.