ONE Championship: Nong-O Hama Warns Bantamweight Muay Thai Division That He Is Still Dangerous

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Former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nong-O Hama fell on hard times in 2023. For the first time in over a decade, the Thai legend tasted back-to-back defeats. But in his first bout of 2024, Nong-O set things right.

The 37-year-old left with the unanimous decision win against bantamweight knockout artist Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai on Friday, 5 April, at ONE Friday Fights 58 in Bangkok, Thailand's Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.

The return to the win column was a sorely sought after outcome for Nong-O. Many thought he had past his prime, chasing the dragon for the sweet taste of victory. But there's fight in the old dog yet, and he insists he's far from done.

"I feel like other fighters had underestimated me because of my age, but I don't think they realize that I am still powerful, my body is still good, my physical strength is still good, and I can still fight," Nong-O said. "I also have a lot of experience that they should be careful of."

For the longest time, Nong-O enjoyed a lengthy reign at the top of ONE Championship's bantamweight Muay Thai realm. The legend defended his crown against talents such as Saemapetch Fairtex, Felipe Lobo, and Liam Harrison, stopping many of his competitors along the way.

After notching his first victory this year, Nong-O's main order of business is to reclaim the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title. Given his pristine run as a titleholder, he believes he deserves the next shot at the division's strap.

Whether that be against the current king and the man who dethroned, Jonathan Haggerty, or even Superlek Kiatmoo9 following his upcoming ONE 168 title fight against Haggerty, Nong-O doesn't care. He just wants a chance to right the wrongs of last year.

"I was the champion for seven defenses, so yeah, I think I should get a title shot," Nong-O said. "I'm not focusing on the person, but I'm just focusing on the belt. So whoever is the champ at the moment, I would like to fight them."