Jackie Buntan and Anissa Meksen have a new date for the inaugural ONE Women’s Strawweight Kickboxing World Title. The two were initially slated for a summer showdown, but an undisclosed injury forced Buntan’s withdrawal. On Wednesday, ONE Championship announced the bout has been added to ONE 169 on Friday, November 8.
In 2022, Buntan got a shot at the inaugural ONE Strawweight Muay Thai World Title but fell short against Smilla Sundell. Since that loss, the American has rebounded with three exciting victories. None were more impressive than her KO in ONE’s U.S. debut against Diandra Martin.
IT'S ON ⚔️ Jackie Buntan and Anissa Meksen's long-awaited clash for the inaugural ONE Women's Strawweight Kickboxing World Title goes down November 8 at ONE 169 on @primevideo! Who you got? 👑#ONE169 | Nov 8 at 8PM ET
🌍 Live TV broadcast in 190+ countries (check local… pic.twitter.com/XzC8gGJO9q— ONE Championship (@ONEChampionship) October 9, 2024
Meksen, long known as one of kickboxing’s pound-for-pound best, began her ONE tenure with dominating showcases. The French-Algerian was calling for an atomweight title shot against Buntan’s teammate, Janet Todd. While that match never happened, Meksen got a shot at gold against Phetjeeja, but she came up short against the Thai superstar.
Meksen will now move up to strawweight, which may be a more natural weight class for the talented kickboxer. However, Buntan’s power will be a huge factor when the two begin exchanging leather. The incredible kickboxing title tilt is another jaw-dropping addition to the ONE 169 lineup.
ONE 169 was already one of the year’s best cards. The addition of Buntan vs. Meksen only deepens its offerings and bolsters that claim. Lumpinee Stadium will be treated to a special night as the holiday season approaches.
ONE 169 airs live on Friday, November 8, on Prime Video. The action begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The event is free for all Amazon Prime members in the U.S. and Canada.
