14-05-2025
- Sport
- South China Morning Post
ONE Championship: Nong-O open to fighting friends Superlek, Rodtang in title bid
At 38 years old, Nong-O Gaiyanghadao has already achieved more than most fighters could dream of – but the former ONE bantamweight Muay Thai champion isn't done just yet.
'I really want to become a champion again before I retire,' he told the Post. 'That's the No 1 thing that I've been thinking about.'
Last month in Bangkok, Nong-O returned to winning ways by beating rising Thai star Kongthoranee in a closely contested rematch. It was his second appearance at flyweight in ONE Championship, following a split decision loss to the same opponent in his debut at the weight.
He said the change in weight class has made him feel sharper and more comfortable in the ring.
'I feel like I am faster and the flow is better,' he said. 'Moving down to flyweight, I've gotten to face opponents who are kind of like the same height, the same body type as me, so I think it's better.'
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The win helped silence critics who have questioned his ability to keep up with the younger generation.
