K-1 World MAX 70kg Grand Prix

The K-1 Grand Prix has long been seen as the peak of elite kickboxing. Its tournaments are brutal, showcasing the very best strikers in high-stakes, single-night showdowns. In 2025, the return of the K-1 World MAX 70kg Grand Prix has brought fresh excitement to the sport. But how does this legendary tournament compare to the modern powerhouse of ONE Championship?

The 2025 K-1 World MAX 70kg World Championship Tournament kicked off on September 7 in Tokyo. The opening round produced some spectacular action. Ouyang Feng, the reigning 70kg champion, advanced with a narrow majority decision win over Kacper Muszynski. Stoyan Koprivlenski booked his place in the next stage with a clear victory, while Minoru Kimura lit up the card with a first-round knockout. Fans also witnessed Zhora Akopyan and Jonathan Aiulu deliver a thrilling back-and-forth battle that stood out as the fight of the night.

The tournament will conclude with the grand final on November 15 in Tokyo, where the best of the 70kg division will collide for the ultimate prize. With the single-night format demanding multiple wins to be crowned champion, the final promises to be a true test of endurance, skill, and mental toughness.

SHOP: The Kickboxer Collection

ONE Championship’s Global Approach

While K-1 focuses on pure kickboxing and intense tournament formats, ONE Championship offers a much broader combat sports experience. Founded in 2011, ONE has become a global leader by mixing MMA, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and grappling into its events. Its champions are built over time through rankings and title fights rather than single-night eliminations.

ONE also adds a unique twist with Muay Thai in 4oz MMA gloves, creating a fast-paced, knockout-friendly environment. Fighters such as Rodtang Jitmuangnon and Superbon Singha Mawynn have become global stars under the ONE banner, proving its ability to bring striking arts to a massive international audience.

Comparing the Two

K-1 World MAX represents tradition, prestige, and the thrill of tournament chaos. ONE Championship represents evolution, scale, and global entertainment. The 70kg K-1 Grand Prix carries the weight of kickboxing history, while ONE is shaping the future of combat sports by diversifying disciplines and building crossover stars.

In K-1, the 70 kg Grand Prix is one of the most celebrated weight classes, known for delivering intense, single-night tournament action. In contrast, ONE Championship classifies the 70 kg division as featherweight in kickboxing. The current ONE champion in that category is Superbon Singha Mawynn, who was elevated to undisputed featherweight kickboxing world champion in January 2025.

Final Thoughts

The upcoming K-1 World MAX 70kg final will give fans a taste of the old-school glory that made K-1 a household name in combat sports. At the same time, ONE Championship continues to expand its global footprint by blending martial arts disciplines for a wider audience. Both promotions thrive in their own way—K-1 by honoring tradition, and ONE by rewriting what combat sports can look like in the modern era.