Four World Championship bouts were simply not enough for ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang. ONE Championship added a fifth spectacular title tilt to the lineup. On Sunday, March 23, Phetjeeja defends the ONE Women’s Atomweight Kickboxing World Championship against Kana Morimoto in what promises to be a sensational five-round battle.
Phetjeeja Puts Atomweight Title at Risk vs. Kana in March
Phetjeeja has been peerless since arriving in ONE in 2023. She dominated her Muay Thai bouts with precision and power. However, her surprising venture into kickboxing is what has paid off in gold.
IT'S ON 🥊 Phetjeeja puts her ONE Women's Atomweight Kickboxing World Title on the line against Japanese superstar Kana at Saitama Super Arena on March 23 at ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang! Will the Thai titleholder move to 7-0 in ONE, or will "Krusher Queen" claim the gold in front… pic.twitter.com/1QChAZCmm8
— ONE Championship (@ONEChampionship) February 12, 2025
“The Queen” stepped up to take on Anissa Meksen for the ONE Interim Women’s Atomweight Kickboxing World Title at ONE Friday Fights 46. Although it was her first kickboxing match, her speed and technical prowess were on full display. After five rounds, she was the clear victor and was adorned with gold for the first time.
Less than three months later, Phetjeeja returned to unify the gold with Janet Todd. Although the American made it difficult, Phetjeeja’s speed allowed her to touch up Todd over the five rounds. “The Queen” secured the undisputed crown and took the throne for her own.
Phetjeeja Faces Stiff Challenge vs. Kana March 23 in ONE 172
Life will not get any easier against Kana. The Japanese kickboxing star has a long list of accolades in the sport. With her first title opportunity in ONE, in front of a home audience, Kana will be at her best.
The Japanese talent earned her title shot with a dominant showcase in her last outing at ONE Friday Fights 95. Swedish striker Moa Carlsson attempted to offer resistance, but Kana was on point from the opening bell. After three rounds, Kana picked up her first win in ONE and turned her attention to ONE 172.
The atomweight title tilt joins the stacked championship lineup, but it plays second fiddle to none. Phetjeeja vs. Kana is a standout atomweight collision that has all the ingredients to steal the show. March 23 is set to be a historic night in Japan.
ONE 172 airs live from the Saitama Super Arena on Sunday, March 23. The action is slated to begin at 4 a.m. EST/1 a.m. PST. Stay tuned with MMASucka.com for complete coverage.