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Superbon wanted only one struggle in 2021 to eternally change the course of kickboxing historical past, and consequently, he’s been named the Male ONE Tremendous Collection Striker of the Yr.
The Thai earned this prestigious accolade by gorgeous a real legend who’d gone undefeated for seven years and had misplaced simply twice in 108 profession fights – Giorgio “The Physician” Petrosyan.
The 2 males battled for the inaugural ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Title at ONE: FIRST STRIKE on 15 October.
On the time, Petrosyan had established himself as a mainstay in ONE Tremendous Collection by defeating seven elite strikers in beneath three years. These opponents included future ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Champion Petchmorakot Petchyindee Academy and a trio of fellow contenders en path to successful the 2019 ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix.
In distinction, 31-year-old Superbon had fought simply as soon as within the group, scoring a call win over Sitthichai “Killer Child” Sitsongpeenong. And though he’d defeated some huge names all through his profession, his successful streak solely stretched again three years.
Due to this, followers thought Petrosyan would have one other simple evening – however Superbon had different concepts.
The truth is, the Thai at all times believed in his coronary heart that he might beat the person who many think about the kickboxing GOAT. He even claimed that Petrosyan had been ducking him main as much as their foremost occasion showdown.
And when the 2 athletes entered the Circle in Singapore, followers had been blessed with a matchup they’d spent years praying for. The result, nonetheless, was unimaginable – till it occurred.
Solely 20 seconds into spherical two of their World Title tilt, Petrosyan threw his trademark left hand however couldn’t convey it again in time.
In the meantime, Superbon had already let go of a strong proper excessive kick, and it landed flush on the icon’s uncovered chin.
“The Physician” got here crashing down as if Superbon had taken an ax to the bottom of a tree, and it was lights out.
Referee Olivier Coste instantly waved off the struggle as Superbon ran across the perimeter of the Circle pumping his fist in celebration of his earth-shattering achievement.
It was a pivotal second in historical past – not only for Superbon however for all the sport of kickboxing. The Thai immediately catapulted his identify to a spot the place only some different strikers have occupied, and he proved {that a} residing legend was beatable.
Learn extra: Okay Rae Yoon Named ONE’s 2021 Male MMA Fighter Of The Yr
