Flyweight and Bantamweight Muay Thai divisions are vacant in ONE: Who will be the next champions?

ONE Championship is the largest promotion in Muay Thai in the world and two of its divisions are without a champion, the flyweight and Bantamweight. So, who’s next to throne either division?

Flyweight Muay Thai

Bantamweight Muay Thai

The Bantamweight has seen some dramatic changes over the last year. British fighter Jonathan Haggerty was the Bantamweight champion until he was dethroned by Superlek last September on One 168. However, Superlek put his belt on the line before he even stepped in the ring as he failed to make weight against Nabil Anane at ONE172.

The vacant titles in ONE Championship’s Flyweight and Bantamweight Muay Thai divisions represent both uncertainty and opportunity. These two weight classes have been home to some of the sport’s most electrifying athletes, and their rich history promises that the next champions will have big shoes to fill.

Why Are the Titles Vacant?

Bantamweight Muay Thai (65 kg):

Superlek Kiatmuu9, the former champion, was stripped of the title in early 2025 due to hydration test failures before a scheduled unification bout. As a result, the division is now open, with top contenders vying for a shot at glory.

Flyweight Muay Thai (61 kg):

Rodtang Jitmuangnon, a crowd favorite and one of the most dominant fighters in Muay Thai, held the Flyweight belt until late 2024. However, he was stripped of the title after missing weight for a fight against Jacob Smith. Although the bout went ahead as a catchweight contest, the Flyweight belt has remained vacant ever since. This unfortunate situation has left fans eagerly awaiting the crowning of a new champion in this high-octane division.

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Who Are the Top Contenders?

Bantamweight Muay Thai:

Nabil Anane:

The interim champion and a dynamic talent, Nabil has showcased his skill and determination. His lanky frame and precision striking make him a nightmare matchup for any opponent.

Nico Carrillo:

A knockout artist with an impressive streak in ONE, Carrillo’s explosive style and resilience position him as a strong contender for the title.

Jonathan Haggerty & Felipe Lobo:

Both fighters bring experience and grit, ensuring they remain key players in the title race.

Flyweight Muay Thai:

Kongthoranee Sor Sommai vs. Nong-O Hama:

These two will face off in a potential title eliminator at ONE Fight Night 28. With both being seasoned warriors, the stakes are as high as they come.

Rodtang Jitmuangnon:

Despite losing the title due to weight issues, Rodtang is still a top-tier contender. If he can manage his weight, his return could redefine the division.

Superlek Kiatmuu9:

As a multi-division champion, Superlek might aim for a Flyweight Muay Thai title, further solidifying his legacy.

What’s Next?

The paths to crowning new champions are full of intriguing possibilities:

For Bantamweight:

A unification bout featuring Nabil Anane against another top contender like Nico Carrillo could be the next big headline. Alternatively, a mini-tournament might determine the ultimate champion.

For Flyweight:

The winner of Kongthoranee vs. Nong-O should be a frontrunner for the title. However, with names like Rodtang and Superlek in the mix, the division could see unexpected fireworks.

Final Thoughts

The Flyweight division, in particular, has been one of the most exciting in all of combat sports. With Rodtang Jitmuangnon setting the standard for dominance, fans have come to expect high-octane action and jaw-dropping moments. However, his departure from the title picture due to weight issues has left a vacuum, paving the way for fresh faces to claim the spotlight. Fighters like Kongthoranee Sor Sommai and Nong-O Hama are perfectly positioned to seize this moment, while wildcard contenders such as Rodtang (if he can manage his weight) and Superlek could inject additional excitement into the title race.

Meanwhile, the Bantamweight division is equally captivating. Nabil Anane’s interim championship reign has sparked debates over whether he can cement his status as the undisputed champion. Standing in his way are hard-hitters like Nico Carrillo, who possesses knockout power capable of turning any fight in his favor, and seasoned veterans like Jonathan Haggerty, whose experience could prove to be a game-changer in a title bout. The intrigue doesn’t stop there—Felipe Lobo and others in the top five are chomping at the bit for their shot at the crown.

For fans, this is an exhilarating time to follow ONE Championship. Vacant titles often signify a period of transition, where divisions are redefined, new rivalries are forged, and previously unheralded fighters step into the limelight. These moments of unpredictability are what make combat sports so compelling.

As the Flyweight and Bantamweight landscapes take shape, it’s clear that ONE Championship is at the forefront of delivering unforgettable matchups and storylines. Will a rising star capture the belt and usher in a new era? Or will an experienced veteran reclaim the throne and remind the world of their greatness?

One thing is certain: the road to crowning the next Flyweight and Bantamweight Muay Thai champions will be filled with drama, excitement, and no shortage of world-class talent.