ONE 173 preview and prediction: Superlek vs. Yuki Yoza

A battle between two fearsome warriors with ballistic kicks could end up stealing the show at ONE 173: Superbon vs Noiri.

Yuki Yoza and Superlek Kiatmoo9’s paths will finally converge this coming Sunday, Nov. 16, in a crucial bantamweight kickboxing showdown at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena.

Dubbed as ‘The Kicking Machine’, Superlek is a virtuoso when it comes to punishing his opponents with surgical precision.

The Thai tactician’s brilliant mind when it comes to the intricacies of striking is second to none.

However, Superlek didn’t look like his old ferocious self in his last outing against ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion Nabil Anane. The 30-year-old lost his invincible aura against the towering champion and appeared mortal after three rounds at ONE 172 in March.

The reigning ONE flyweight kickboxing world champion heard all the jeers from the naysayers, questioning if he’s still one of the pound-for-pound best in the world.

Superlek aims to erase all doubts in the biggest martial arts event of the year. He’s also seeking to settle a grudge against Yoza, who’s been dismissing him in the build-up to this fight.

For Superlek, it’s a chance to prove that Thai striking still reigns supreme over the Japanese style.

Meanwhile, Yoza represents the new breed of fierce Japanese warriors who have taken over the world’s largest martial arts organization. The 27-year-old striker did not just arrive; he dominated in two sensational victories in the promotion.

The former K-1 champion will not just be fighting for himself. He wants to avenge his Team Vasileus teammate Takeru Segawa, who fell prey to Superlek last year.

Beating a former two-division and two-sport world champion will take Yoza’s career to unprecedented heights and cement his status as the next world title challenger at 145 pounds.

It’s all or nothing for the Japanese star at ONE 173. Follow this link to purchase the PPV pass for this massive event.

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Prediction: Superlek via unanimous decision

This kicking battle should live up to the hype, and I expect Yoza to unleash his devastating calf kicks early and often.

Taking away Superlek's rhythm and movement will be key to victory for the Japanese star. The Team Vasileus fighter should get a few hits in until Superlek finds the timing of those signature weapons.

Defending leg kicks has been a priority in 'The Kicking Machine's' training camp for this one, knowing what he's up against.

The flyweight kickboxing king's incredible reflexes could prove crucial, along with his pinpoint counterstriking.

Yoza must keep his composure and turn this into a brawl in close quarters to have his best shot at winning.

But the Thai savant is way too smart to fall into this trap, and I see him putting on another masterful performance to return to the winning column.