Following the success of ONE 172, fight fans in Japan and around the world are hungry for more action. From lightning-fast knockouts by Muay Thai icon Rodtang Jitmuangnon to high-level MMA finishes by Japan’s own Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu, anticipation is high for the next big card. For its next stop in Japan, ONE Championship is teasing the card with two thrilling matchups in Muay Thai and MMA, each with very different stakes but both worth watching.
That being said, let’s dive straight into what was revealed in the press release earlier today, and more importantly, what we can expect from these matchups.
Superbon Vs Masaaki Noiri: Two Stylists, One Title
This matchup brings together two of the most accomplished strikers in the featherweight division, but with completely different roads behind them.
Superbon has been here before. His record speaks for itself, with wins over names like Marat Grigorian and Sitthichai, a long history in kickboxing and Muay Thai, and more recently, a return to form with a decisive victory on ONE Friday Fights. After Chingiz Allazov vacated his title, Superbon was re-elevated to full ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion status.
Masaaki Noiri, on the other hand, comes in representing a different legacy. A K-1 standout with a high-pressure, technical style, Noiri recently earned interim status in ONE Championship after a strong clash against Tawanchai at Saitama. That win helped cement his status as Japan’s leading representative in the division.
This fight won’t be wild or reckless; it’ll likely be calculated. Both men are patient, tactical strikers. It could come down to who manages distance better, who sets traps more effectively, and who keeps their composure late in the fight.
Reug Reug Vs Anatoly Malykhin II: The Return Of The Titans
The first time Reug Reug and Anatoly Malykhin fought, not many expected the outcome. Reug Reug, previously known more for his athleticism than polish, pulled off a narrow decision win over a fighter who had looked nearly untouchable up to that point.
Now they run it back. This time, the context is different.
Reug Reug enters the rematch with momentum. He’s improved visibly, his gas tank looks better, his takedown entries are more controlled, and his ability to absorb and counter has evolved.
While known for his knockout power and aggressive style, Malykhin also has the grappling credentials to shift gears when needed. Some believe he may take a more strategic approach, mixing in takedowns, clinch work, and top pressure to slow the pace and wear his opponent down, a contrast to the high-risk, high-reward exchanges he’s often favored.
That being said, many expect him to lean on his wrestling and pressure control more this time around.
This match goes beyond just the title and belt. It’s a test of whether the first fight was a one-off or a sign of a legitimate power shift in the heavyweight division.
Looking Ahead
ONE 173 brings two very different kinds of matchups to Tokyo, one defined by precision and experience, the other by physicality and the unpredictable nature of heavyweight fighting. It’s a return to Japan that blends global talent with a strong local presence, and the matchups so far suggest a solid mix of styles.
But we’re probably not done yet. As the card fills out, more names will likely be added—and that opens the door to even more possibilities.
What fights are you hoping to see added to the lineup at ONE 173?
Let us know what matchups you’re keeping an eye on or who you’d like to see get their shot in Tokyo.
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