5 Inspirational Images Of Respect From ONE: KINGDOM OF HEROES
The martial artists of ONE Championship went into their bouts at ONE: KINGDOM OF HEROES with the utmost respect for their opponents.
They may have entered the ring with the intention of scoring a knockout or making their rival tap to a submission, but that did not stop them from sharing the values of honor, humility, and compassion.
Unlike the athletes in other combat sports events around the world, there was no trash talk, no animosity, and no negativity.
Win or lose, every man and woman who competed at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand showed their warrior spirit, and integrity when facing their opposite number. These are some of the best examples of that from a historic night.
Mutual Respect In The Main Event
There is nothing like 12 rounds of toe-to-toe boxing to bring two men closer together.
Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Iran “MagnifiKO” Diaz made history as the first boxers to headline a ONE event, and although the Thai hero kept his WBC Super Flyweight World Title via a wide unanimous decision, they were arm in arm after their contest to mark their efforts.
Zatout Congratulates His Conqueror
Nong-O Gaiyanghadao delivered one of the most dominant displays of Muay Thai in the short history of ONE Super Series, despite being up against a world-class competitor in Mehdi “Diamond Heart” Zatout.
Despite his disappointment at his loss via unanimous decision, the first man to offer his congratulations to the Thai legend was the Frenchman, Zatout.
Recognition Of Greatness
Anthony “The Assassin” Njokuani was honored to step into the ring with one of the greatest kickboxers of this century, Andy “Souwer Power” Souwer.
The Nigerian paid tribute to his opponent before and after their match. He bowed his head as they touched gloves, before he battled to a close split decision victory.
Care For A Challenger
Hayato Suzuki was back to his best as he forced Robin “The Ilonggo” Catalan to tap to a rear-naked choke in the second round.
His squeeze was so tight, the Filipino was on the brink of losing consciousness, so instead of wheeling away in celebration, the Japanese victor paused to check the welfare of his opponent before he did anything else.
Humble In Victory
Petchdam Kaiyanghadao was a whirlwind of entertainment in Bangkok. From his energetic entrance to his lightning-quick knockout of Kenny “The Pitbull” Tse and his ecstatic celebrations, the 20-year-old barely paused for breath on Saturday night.
However, as soon his vanquished opponent regained his bearings, the Thai star was quick to offer his consolations and gratitude for their contest.
