ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang is shaping up to be one of the best combat sports events of the year, and Superlek vs. Anane 2 is a must-watch fight for Muay Thai fans.
With high stakes, a championship unification, and a compelling rematch storyline, this bout has all the ingredients for an unforgettable fight.
Will Superlek continue his reign, or will Anane shock the world? The answers will be revealed on March 23 in Japan.
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Nabil Anane’s Rapid Ascent in ONE Championship
At just 20 years old, Nabil Anane has quickly become one of the most promising Muay Thai fighters in ONE Championship.
His height and reach advantage make him a unique challenge for any opponent, and his aggressive fighting style has led to an impressive six-fight winning streak.
After his 2023 loss to Superlek, Anane made significant improvements in his game, earning the interim title with a string of impressive victories.
His ability to adapt and evolve has been remarkable, and he is determined to prove that he belongs among the elite strikers in the division.
Superlek’s Explosive Knockout Performance
Their first encounter in June 2023 ended in dramatic fashion. Superlek wasted no time asserting his dominance, closing the distance and landing powerful kicks and punches.
Anane struggled to keep up with the pace, and before the round ended, Superlek landed a devastating knockout blow.
The fight was a statement victory for Superlek, solidifying his status as one of the best Muay Thai fighters in the world.
However, Anane has had nearly a year to study and adjust his approach, making the rematch a much more intriguing battle.
Nabil Anane: Lessons Learned
Anane’s biggest challenge in the first fight was Superlek’s ability to pressure and cut off the ring.
He struggled to use his height and reach effectively, allowing Superlek to get inside and land powerful shots.
For the rematch, Anane will need to:
- Utilize his jab to keep Superlek at bay.
- Improve his footwork to avoid getting trapped against the ropes.
- Use his knees and clinch work to slow down Superlek’s aggressive style.
With these adjustments, Anane could pose a much greater challenge in the rematch.
Superlek’s First Title Defense
This fight marks Superlek’s first official title defense since capturing the bantamweight Muay Thai world championship.
A dominant win would further cement his legacy and potentially set up future super fights against legends like Rodtang or Takeru.
A loss, however, would shake up the division and create an exciting rivalry between Superlek and Anane, possibly leading to a trilogy fight.
For Anane, this fight represents the biggest opportunity of his career. A win over Superlek would not only avenge his previous defeat but also establish him as the undisputed best in the division.
It would also open doors for potential crossover fights in kickboxing, where Anane could showcase his striking skills against some of the best in the world.
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How This Fight Impacts the Bantamweight Muay Thai Division
The winner of this fight will emerge as the clear-cut best bantamweight Muay Thai fighter in the world. However, the division is filled with rising stars and potential challengers, including:
- Jonathan Haggerty – The former champion is looking for a chance to reclaim his belt.
- Rodtang Jitmuangnon – If Rodtang moves up in weight, he could be next in line for a title shot.
- Takeru Segawa – Though more focused on kickboxing, Takeru’s presence adds excitement to the division.
If Superlek wins, he could be on a path to facing Rodtang or Haggerty in a high-profile showdown. If Anane pulls off the upset, it could lead to a trilogy fight with Superlek.
This rematch is a classic battle of experience vs. youth. Superlek has proven time and time again that he is one of the best strikers in the world, while Anane has shown rapid improvement and the hunger to become a champion.
While Anane has the tools to make this a competitive fight, Superlek’s experience and power give him the edge. Expect another strong performance from Superlek, but this time, the fight might go deeper into the rounds before a possible finish.
Also Read: Eduard Folayang Breaks Down the Most Epic Fights at ONE 172