Are Thai Fighters Dominating ONE Championship?

When you think of Muay Thai, your mind likely drifts to the streets of Bangkok, the sounds of drum beats in Lumpinee Stadium, and warriors steeped in centuries of tradition. So, it’s no surprise that Thai fighters are making a powerful statement in ONE Championship—a promotion that has become the biggest global platform for Muay Thai.

But are they dominating? Let’s take a closer look.

The Thai Titans of ONE

Some of the biggest stars in ONE Championship wear the Thai flag with pride—and power.

Rodtang Jitmuangnon, better known as “The Iron Man,” isn’t just a champion—he’s a phenomenon. With an aggressive, walk-you-down style and a granite chin, Rodtang has defended the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Title like a true gladiator, earning fans worldwide with every war.

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Then there’s Nong-O Hama, a technician and tactician who turned his reign as ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion into a masterclass in precision striking. His title defenses weren’t just wins—they were statements.

Tawanchai PK Saenchai brings finesse and flair, representing the new generation of Thai fighters. Young, humble, and laser-focused, he’s currently holding the Featherweight Muay Thai belt and gaining a reputation for being nearly untouchable.

And of course, Superlek — a true crossover threat — has proved unstoppable in both Muay Thai and kickboxing. With the longest winning streak in ONE and the 2024 Fighter of the Year title under his belt, he might just be the most complete striker on the planet right now.

Why Thais Are Thriving?

There’s a simple reason Thai fighters are thriving in ONE: the organization has put Muay Thai center stage. In 2023, ONE hosted nearly three times as many Muay Thai bouts as MMA fights. That’s unheard of in the global combat sports scene, and it’s a huge opportunity for Thailand’s finest to shine.

There’s also home-court advantage. With ONE hosting regular events in Bangkok and working closely with Thailand’s Royal Army and Lumpinee Stadium, it’s almost like the sport has come full circle—back to its roots, but on a global platform.

But It’s Not a Lock

As dominant as they are, Thai fighters aren’t unbeatable. Fighters like Jonathan Haggerty from the UK have stepped into the lion’s den and walked out with belts. The global talent pool is deeper than ever, and international strikers are adapting fast, studying the Thai style and bringing new weapons to the fight.

This isn’t a one-nation show—it’s a global proving ground. And that’s what makes it exciting.

So, Are Thais Dominating ONE Championship?

Yes—but not uncontested. Thai fighters are the heart and soul of Muay Thai in ONE Championship, blending tradition with elite performance. But they’re being pushed by hungry challengers from around the world.

In many ways, that’s the beauty of it. ONE Championship has become a battleground where the legends of Thailand meet the future of global striking—and right now, Thailand still holds the throne.