Regian Eersel is back atop ONE Championship’s lightweight kickboxing mountain. After dropping the title six months ago, Eersel was intent on reclaiming the gold from Alexis Nicolas in their rematch. At ONE Fight Night 25, “The Immortal” cruised to a unanimous decision win.
Securing the win was made a little sweeter because of the trash talk from fans leading into the match. Eersel’s motivation was clear from the opening bell. Avenging the loss has left the talented Surinamese star satisfied on all fronts.
“Of course, people were doubting me, especially the French fans. I got a lot of messages saying that I was going to sleep. But that only added fuel to the fire. It only motivated me, and you saw the result. I’m very satisfied [that I avenged my only loss in ONE]. It’s one of the best things. I’m very happy,” Eersel told ONE following his victory.
“The Immortal” has nothing but respect for his latest rival. Eersel felt comfortable as the fight neared the scorecards, but it required him to be at the top of his game. Although he got his hand raised, he was quick to share what makes Nicolas a tough out inside the ring.
“Alexis is a challenging opponent because of his fighting style. He’s very quick. His fighting [style] is unique, but you saw I found the key to beat him. I knew in the last [round] I was winning the fight. I was scoring more points,” Eersel commented.
With the series even at 1-1, a trilogy is a natural thought. However, Eersel is not interested in running it right back with the Frenchman. Instead, the two-sport king wants to defend his other title and let the kickboxing division elevate a clear-cut top contender.
“No, [I don’t think we should have a trilogy fight with Nicolas] right now. Maybe in the future. I hope my next fight will be in Muay Thai because the position is waiting for me. It took a long time to defend my Muay Thai belt, so I think now it’s time. First, I’m going to enjoy this victory, then we will talk about my next opponent. It can be anybody. Just bring them to me. I have no names. ONE can line them up for me,” the ONE Lightweight Kickboxing and Muay Thai World Champion said.
Eersel is also keeping the door open to other options. While competing in MMA is not on his list, he is not shutting the door on potential mixed-rules matches. As an elite athlete, “The Immortal” is always interested in pushing and challenging himself to the highest degree.
“I can do a mixed-rules fight. Not MMA. It would take more preparation, and it’s not one of my goals. What’s most exciting about a mixed-rules fight is you can fight [in] almost all of the disciplines. And it’s a challenge. I like challenges. We have to challenge ourselves – that’s why we’re here,” Eersel stated.
