Martin “The Situ‑Asian” Nguyen: The Living Myth of ONE Championship
Calling Martin Nguyen just a fighter is like describing a lion as “an animal.” He’s the undisputed ruler of two weight classes, a two‑time ONE World Champion who’s already bled, bruised, and belted his way through an arena where every entry is legendary.
Last Year’s Grand Slam
In 2023, Nguyen captured both his Featherweight and Lightweight titles in a single, jaw‑dropping fight night. When it comes to being a champion, he’s as comfortable wearing two crowns as a barber with twins, but the story doesn’t stop there.
Almost Added the Third Crown
Earlier this year he had a close call with the Bantamweight title, but a split decision loss to Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes left the door ajar. Nguyen has the nerves, the talent, and the wish to stick with a “third” title if the opportunity comes knocking.
UNSTOPPABLE DREAMS – The Weekend Fight
On Friday, 18 May, the champ returns to his original division for ONE: UNSTOPPABLE DREAMS. Nguyen will battle teenage sensation Christian “The Warrior” Lee in a Featherweight title bout – the first time he’ll defend his belt against someone he’s already beaten.
Why Christian is Can’t-Miss
- He stunned Nguyen with a first‑round modified guillotine in August 2016.
- Now, he’s grown into a formidable, hungry fighter.
- Singapore crowd will back the over‑the‑top junior.
Nguyen’s Perspective
“He’s evolved. A loss can spark true growth – he’s climbed the ranks fast,” Nguyen says. “I thought he’d have had a different path, but a rematch was the logical next step.”
Underdog, But Still a King
Despite his high‑level résumé, Nguyen admits he’ll be the underdog. Christian’s momentum and the home advantage make him the fan favourite, yet Nguyen is cool about it.
“I’ve known all along that people doubt me. I keep them guessing. I’ll bring finishers—myself and Christian—into the ring. Either I finish him or he finishes me.”
Looking Beyond the Featherweight Title
Nguyen also plans to defend his Lightweight belt soon. There’s pressure to crown a new number‑one contender from the lineup of top‑level lightweight battles scheduled for the same night.
“Those matches might be title eliminators,” he says. “Each winner could challenge the champ—either me or the next big name.”
Potential Challenger Landscape
- Eduard “Folayang” must win, but more fights might precede a meeting with Nguyen.
- Rasul “Yakhyaev” beat Shannon Wiratchai, battling for an elevated position.
- Shinya “Aoki” remains a top contender since last decade.
The Folayang vs. Nguyen Relationship
Everyone knows Nguyen knocked Folayang out to win the lightweight title, but he stresses the respect between them. “We’re on each other’s journey. It’s a friendship beyond the cage. That loss is a learning lesson for Folayang.”
Possible Return to Bantamweight?
Nguyen is open to reclaiming the Bantamweight title. The split decision with Fernandes was a close match, and some fans already call for a rematch.
“The rematch feels inevitable,” he says. “If Bibiano wants it, I’m ready. If not, maybe Kevin Belingon will step in and seize the chance.”
“Kevin’s on a roll, climbing the ranks and taking down opponents on winning streaks,” Nguyen adds. “Whether it’s me or Kevin for Bibiano, the final call is in Bibiano’s hands.”
Bottom Line
Martin Nguyen isn’t just a fighter; he’s a living legend who will continue to weave his story in ONE Championship. Whether he remains a two‑division king, takes on the next challenger, or re‑emerges in a different weight class, the world watches with bated breath—because he’s the type of athlete who proves that entertaining an audience is as much a part of the game as striking a knockout.
