Christian Lee is Set for Triumphant Return at ONE 169 in Atlanta

Christian Lee is set to make his highly anticipated return to the cage after a two-year hiatus. The reigning ONE Championship lightweight and welterweight champion will defend his lightweight title against Alibeg Rasulov at ONE 169, scheduled for November 8 at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta.

ONE Championship officials confirmed the news on Friday, sparking excitement among fans eager to see Lee back in action.

Lee's return to competition follows a prolonged break from the sport, taken in the wake of the tragic passing of his younger sister, Victoria Lee. Victoria, who was also an up-and-coming fighter in ONE Championship, passed away in 2022 at just 18 years old. Both Christian and his older sister, Angela Lee, took time off to mourn their loss, leaving their fighting careers in question.

During this period, ONE CEO Chatri Sityodtong expressed uncertainty about whether the siblings would ever return to the sport. While Angela ultimately chose to retire and focus on a new non-profit organization dedicated to mental health in honor of Victoria, Christian was determined to resume his fighting career.

Christian Lee's last appearance in ONE saw him defeat Kiamrian Abbasov to secure his status as a two-division champion. His return fight against Rasulov is a significant challenge, as Rasulov boasts a perfect 14-0 record, including a recent victory over former ONE champion Ok Rae Yoon.

The ONE 169 card in Atlanta promises to be a thrilling event, headlined by heavyweight champion Anatoly Malykhin defending his title against Oumar “Reug Reug” Kane. With Lee’s comeback and a stacked fight card, the event is set to be a memorable night for MMA fans.