Worapon And Tom Casse Planning Early Finish In ONE Friday Fights 153 Main Event
Worapon Lukjaoporongtom has heard the complaints. His last two fights were over so quickly that fans barely had time to settle into their seats. His response is characteristically straightforward: it is going to happen again.
The 23-year-old Thai finisher tops the bill at ONE Friday Fights 153 on Friday, May 8, facing French debutant Tom Casse in a bantamweight Muay Thai main event live in Asia primetime from Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Two first-round knockouts in 2026 have built Worapon’s reputation as one of the most dangerous finishers in the weekly series. Eight wins from nine promotional appearances, four by knockout, and a contract that feels closer with every performance. He is not planning to slow down.
“Some fans complained that my last two fights were over too quickly,” Worapon said. “And this time, as soon as the fight starts, don’t blink. It will end fast again, but I don’t want to hear any more complaints.”
A third consecutive stoppage win would strengthen his case for the US$100,000 contract he has been targeting since his 2023 debut. He knows the threshold is within reach but equally understands that the decision belongs to someone else.
“I want my third straight win of the year to keep a steady path to the global stage,” he said. “I feel like the goal is within reach now, but it just depends on how well I can maintain this form and when Chatri feels the time is right.”
Casse is not the opponent to let him breeze to that destination. The 25-year-old arrives on a three-fight winning streak with a 12-4 record, carrying the combination-heavy hands and movement that Worapon has specifically identified as his primary concern. The Thai has studied the tape and mapped out where he believes he holds the decisive edge.
“He has very quick movement, fast strikes, and a lot of heart — he’s not the type to give up easily,” Worapon said. “Tom’s weakness seems to be the clinch. He definitely prefers staying on the outside. Being European, his style is similar to Arthur’s, but Tom looks a bit more agile and quick.”
Casse, for his part, has been waiting for this moment for years. He has watched fighters from his circle sign with ONE Championship while his own invitation remained out of reach, and the patience required to stay ready through that wait has only sharpened his focus heading into Lumpinee.
“I always wanted to be where I am now. I fought guys who came to ONE Championship, and I always asked my trainer, ‘When is my turn?'” Casse said. “Now I have this opportunity, so I’m really happy. However, Worapon is a really tough opponent. He has had 13 fights in ONE. He has experience. I would say he’s definitely one of the best bantamweights right now.”
The logic driving Casse’s ambition is clean and direct. A win over the man closest to a contract does not just end Worapon’s streak — it puts Casse at the front of the queue instead.
“This fight is a big opportunity because he’s one of the top opponents. So, if I beat him, I will arrive directly at the top,” he said. “I think he’s almost going to get the contract, so it’s an easier way for me to go on top.”
Worapon’s clinch dominance is the stylistic question Casse must answer on the night. He has no intention of avoiding it.
“For sure, he has more experience than me in the clinch, but I believe in my skills,” Casse said. “I can rely on my boxing, and I believe it will work like that.”
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