Andy Souwer Shelves Retirement to Chase a ONE Super Series Dream

Andy Souwer Shelves Retirement to Chase a ONE Super Series Dream

Andy Souwer Eyes Victory at ONE Super Series – “I’m Ready to Light Up Bangkok!”

Andy Souwer, the Dutch kickboxing legend, is gearing up for his VERY first fight under the ONE Super Series banner. The veteran, who has already tasted the taste of world champion glory, says he’s beyond thrilled to step into the ring in Asia once more.

Why Southern Asian Spirit Wins His Heart

“Asia’s vibe is unbeatable – the people, the respect, the sheer love for the craft.” Souwer told us. “I followed ONE’s social media and thought, Wow, they’re not just about flashy ads; they’re all about pure martial arts love.” He added that the organization’s Chairman, Chatri Sityodtong, impressed him with sincere respect for fighters, not just money.

From Mixed‑MMA to the Kickboxing Smackdown

When ONE tapped him for a battle against Anthony “The Assassin” Njokuani in a lightweight showdown on Saturday, 6 October at ONE: Kingdom of Heroes in Bangkok, Souwer didn’t hesitate. “Honestly, after my last bout I was thinking of hanging up my gloves,” he admitted. “I’d even started a tiny party‑planning business, but the chance to fight one more time in China — and back to Asia — was too good to miss.”

He recounts that one email from his manager to ONE’s office unlocked a two‑year, eight‑fight whirlwind across Asia, giving him the chance to retire as a fighter while investing in his new venture. His wife “ruined “ her own grind to help launch the venture, and that support sealed the deal.

A Face‑to‑Face with an American Goliath

Njokuani’s pedigree – a seasoned combative background turned striking warrior – sets a challenging stage for Souwer, who naturally carries a colossal experience edge in the kickboxing arena. But the Dutchman isn’t blindsiding the crowd with bravado. “The game’s changed, and so are folks like Njokuani,” Souwer says. “I can’t stay the same as the man I was 15 years ago; my focus, mindset, and precision are the real salespoints.”

While he prides himself on still being one of the toughest fighters out there, he admits the mental component is crucial. “Physically, I’m solid. I still train like a beast. But I’ve got to bring the right feelings, focus, and mental toughness to this fight.”

What a Win Could Mean

  • Opportunity to lace up pads against Yodsanklai IWE Fairtex and Giorgio “The Doctor” Petrosyan – both past foes from K‑1 World Max.
  • Potential path to an exciting rivalry revival with old‑school champions.
  • Boost to a schedule featuring the biggest names in ONE’s kickboxing deck.

“I’m pumped about the quality of these fighters, the league’s ambition, and everything that’s on the line,” Souwer concludes. “I can’t wait to throw my ultimate striking style where it truly belongs – in front of the world’s biggest sporting audience.”