ONE Championship Shifts Skies Back to Manila
On Friday, January 26, the Manila lights brightened as the ONE: GLOBAL SUPERHEROES card rolled out, featuring a once‑in‑a‑lifetime roster that’s set to launch the organisation’s biggest event schedule ever.
The Manila Marathon of Knockouts
Picture this: the Mall of Asia Arena crammed full, roaring crowds, and two knockout artists ready to lean into legend‑making. The main event pits Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio against Kairat “The Kazakh” Akhmetov for the vacant ONE Interim Flyweight World Championship.
Why it’s a Must‑See
- Rematch of a Rub – Their first face‑off was a wild 3‑round rollercoaster in Jakarta that ended in a split decision. Who knew weight class could get so fun?
- Championship Stakes – The upcoming bout turns into a 5‑round title fight, and both fighters are hunting that interim belt before taking on Adriano Moraes later in the year.
- Learn‑to‑Laugh Tactics – Both men admitted the last time they didn’t showcase the full package, hinting at a new level of drama and skill.
Words from the Fighters
“Kairat is a tricky opponent,” Eustaquio recalls, adding that after seven rounds together, he knows exactly what pushes the champ’s buttons.
“He didn’t show all he can do last time,” Akhmetov counters, saying, “Neither of us showcased everything.” That line is a promise: this rematch will leave no doubts—as much as the crowd deserves.
What’s Coming After?
After the flies aim to claim the interim title, their next big move is a showdown with Adriano Moraes, the reigning champion. The calendar’s full of action, and fans won’t want to miss a single round.
Japanese & Filipino Stars Clash for a Shot at the Strawweight Crown
Joshua “The Passion” Pacio of the Philippines, a 22‑year‑old rising star, will face China’s sanda ace Lan Ming Qiang in tonight’s co‑main event. Both are riding a wave of hype and are seen as the next potential title challengers in ONE Championship’s strawweight division.
Why Pacio Is a Fan Favorite
- Trains with main‑event superstar Eustaquio at the famed Team Lakay in Baguio.
- Has dispatched former world champ Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke and Thai wrestling ace Kritsada Kongsrichai.
- His most recent win was a jaw‑dropping spinning back‑fist knockout over former pro boxer Roy Doliguez in 2017.
Lan Ming Qiang – The Sanda Specialist
Lan comes from a strong sanda pedigree, boasting multiple Chinese titles before stepping into the cage. This marks his promotional debut in Manila, and he’s certainly not going to let the home crowd give him an easy fight.
Other Filipino Twosome in Action
- Eric “The Natural” Kelly (12‑4) will take on Brazil’s Rafael Nunes (10‑1).
- His younger brother Edward Kelly (9‑4) will face the undefeated Meas Meul (6‑0).
International Contestants
- Ma Hao Bin (9‑1) Chinese wrestling champ meets Bulgarian flyweight Sotir Kichukov.
- Flyweight contender Hayato Suzuki (17‑1‑2) returns to face Brazilian Yago Bryan, hoping to bounce back after a loss to new strawweight champ Alex Silva.
Muay Thai Showcase
The night’s highlight will be a Muay Thai special lineup featuring multiple‑time Lumpinee champion Sam‑A Gaiyanghadao (364‑46‑9) against WBA Muay Thai Super Bantamweight World champ Joseph “Hurricane” Lasiri (34‑4). It’s a fight that celebrates the heart‑stopping artistry of this ancient sport.
