In the dynamic world of combat sports, where promotional boundaries often blur amidst the pursuit of top-tier talent, a recent statement from ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong has captured significant attention. During an exclusive gathering with prominent figures in the Thai combat sports scene, the discussion naturally turned towards the landscape of kickboxing and its leading athletes.
Among the names surfacing was Petchpanomrung, the reigning GLORY Featherweight champion. Petchpanomrung recently cemented his status with a dominant performance at GLORY 100 in Rotterdam, marking his impressive ninth successful title defense against Miguel Trindade. As one of the most accomplished kickboxers outside of the ONE Championship roster, speculation about his future is perennial, especially with kickboxing`s surging popularity in Thailand, partly fueled by ONE`s efforts.
Responding to inquiries about potentially signing the 30-year-old Thai champion, Sityodtong was notably direct. He addressed persistent rumors suggesting Petchpanomrung earns a mere $40,000 per fight under his current GLORY contract. Sityodtong did not mince words, criticizing this figure as ostensibly low for a champion of Petchpanomrung`s caliber and openly encouraged the fighter to consider joining ONE Championship once his existing contractual obligations conclude.
This public overture highlights several key aspects of the current combat sports climate: the ongoing competition for elite fighters between major promotions, the critical issue of athlete compensation, and ONE Championship`s strategic focus on the Asian market and Thai talent. For a champion reportedly earning a sum that Chatri Sityodtong clearly deems insufficient, the prospect of potentially higher purses and global exposure within ONE`s expansive platform is a considerable point of leverage.
The featherweight kickboxing division (around 65 kg) is already a hotbed of activity across various promotions. GLORY is reportedly planning another Featherweight Grand Prix, while ONE recently bolstered its ranks by signing former K-1 champion Yuki Yoza, adding another dangerous contender to its roster which already features top names like Superbon Singha Mawynn and Tawanchai PK Saenchai. The potential addition of Petchpanomrung would undoubtedly shake up the hierarchy and present exciting new superfights.
While fighter contracts are complex and details often remain private, Sityodtong`s public commentary serves as both a recruitment pitch and perhaps a statement on fighter value in the industry. It places direct pressure on the champion and his current promotion while simultaneously positioning ONE Championship as a potential lucrative alternative. The ball, it seems, will eventually be in Petchpanomrung`s court once his current contract cycle ends. Combat sports enthusiasts will keenly watch to see if the GLORY king decides to explore the greener pastures publicly offered by the ONE CEO.
