Former ONE interim featherweight kickboxing world champion Masaaki Noiri of Japan hopes to one day earn a rematch with the mighty Superbon.
The Japanese star was bested by the Thai icon in their unification bout at ONE 173 in Tokyo last November.
It was an epic back-and-forth contest that went the full five rounds. But once the dust settled, Superbon emerged victorious and unified the belts to become the undisputed featherweight kickboxing king.
While Noiri humbly accepted the defeat, he’s not giving up on redeeming himself against the last man to beat him.
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The 33-year-old is willing to work his way back up the loaded division and earn another shot at the Thai legend.
Noiri said in a clip posted by Fairtex Training Center on Instagram:
“Last time I lost to Superbon. I want to have a rematch. I want the kickboxing belt in ONE, and I want to prove that I’m number one.”
Meanwhile, ONE Championship recently announced ONE Samurai, a new monthly event series launching April 29 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo.
Noiri is eager to begin his redemption tour, and this massive event is the perfect avenue for his comeback.
Masaaki Noiri stresses the importance of entertaining the fans
Masaaki Noiri embraces his responsibility to put on a great show for his doting supporters. The former interim featherweight king has never been in a boring fight.
The Japanese striker gives his heart and soul each time he steps in the ring. Win or lose, Noiri will always aim to please.
The Team Vasileus superstar said in the same Instagram clip:
“The easiest part, you can see how you energize and entertain the fans. If you’re a good fighter and do a good job in a fight, it’s the bare minimum. If you’re a great fighter and give a match that deserves fans’ hype, and everyone goes, ‘Whoa!’ That’s where you know the difference [is].”
Edited by Aziel Karthak