ONE Championship is planning a massive card for their return to Japan for ONE 165. Now, a featherweight showdown will be featured with future title implications on the line. #1-ranked featherweight contender Garry Tonon will square off against #3-ranked Martin Nguyen, as first reported by Sports Illustrated’s Justin Barrasso.
The matchup has been at the forefront of the American’s mind since arriving in ONE. When Tonon began his MMA journey, it was Nguyen who stood atop the featherweight division. “The Lion Killer” has always expected a meeting against Nguyen.
Tonon rose to the top of the division utilizing his world-class jiu-jitsu. After a setback in his title bid against Thanh Le, Tonon returned to the win column against Johnny Nunez and Shamil Gasanov. The two performances reaffirmed his status as one of the top contenders in the division.
Since losing his crown to Le, “The Situ-Asian” has had up-and-down success in ONE. However, in February, he returned to form with a dominant three-round performance against Leonardo Casotti. A victory over Tonon would elevate him back to the top of the division, with sights set on getting the gold back around his waist.
With the ONE Featherweight MMA World Title set to be unified between Tang Kai and Thanh Le in the new year, this matchup could be a title eliminator. It is a prime opportunity for Tonon and Nguyen to stake their claim. 2024 is shaping up to be a fantastic year in the featherweight division.
ONE 165 airs live on Sunday, January 28, from the Ariake Arena in Tokyo. A flyweight kickboxing superfight between Rodtang Jitmuangnon and Takeru Segawa will headline the event. More matches and broadcast details will be announced in the weeks to come.
