One Championship all set for resumption in Bangkok
One Championship will return behind closed doors in Thailand this month after a five-month break because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
One, which promotes cards across the region in mixed martial arts, Muay Thai and kickboxing, last put on a major show at the end of February.
The Singapore-based company has since cancelled several events and slashed 20 percent of its staff, although it also revealed a US$70 million funding boost from institutional investors.
With virus outbreaks slowing in many parts of Asia, the company said its flagship championship would restart with an event without fans in Bangkok on July 31.
“The world is suffering from the worst global crisis in a hundred years. Most national borders remain closed in Asia, and this has posed unique logistical and operational challenges,” One CEO Chatri Sityodtong said.
“However, our team at One Championship continues to work hard to deliver fans the authentic martial arts experiences they crave. Our athletes are ready to showcase their skills and tell their stories.”
The first three major bouts of the “One: No Surrender” event have been confirmed.
Among fighters taking part are One flyweight Muay Thai world champion Rodtang ‘The Iron Man’ Jitmuangnon, Petchdam ‘The Baby Shark’ Petchyindee Academy, and Yodsanklai ‘The Boxing Computer’ IWE Fairtex.
One had already put on fights in its Hero series, feeder events for the main championship, in China in June, before deciding to resume major shows.
The US-based Ultimate Fighting Championship on May 10 became one of the first sports to restart post-coronavirus.
UFC has so far successfully put on six shows in tightly controlled environments in Jacksonville, Florida, and Las Vegas.