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ONE Championship is set to make a thrilling return to Japan with ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang, scheduled for Sunday, March 23, at the iconic Saitama Super Arena. Among the most anticipated bouts of the evening, Eduard Folayang and Shinya Aoki will square off for the fourth and potentially final time, adding another chapter to their intense rivalry.
The history between these two MMA legends began in November 2016 at ONE: DEFENDING HONOR, where Folayang shocked the world by stopping Aoki in the third round. However, the Japanese submission specialist quickly turned the tide, claiming back-to-back victories over the Filipino warrior in 2019 and 2021. As it stands, Aoki holds a 2-1 lead in their head-to-head series.
This upcoming fight at ONE 172 is more than just another match—it’s a battle for legacy. For Aoki, a victory would solidify his dominance over Folayang. On the other hand, the former ONE Lightweight MMA World Champion aims to rewrite history and even the score at two wins apiece.
Despite his setbacks against Aoki, Folayang remains a formidable force inside the Circle. He demonstrated his knockout power in September 2023 with a stunning victory over Amir Khan at ONE Fight Night 14. If he can channel that same explosive energy, he stands a strong chance of evening the rivalry.
As fans eagerly await the showdown, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Folayang has made his intentions clear. I want to even the playing field against Aoki and prove that I am still among the best. With both fighters at a crucial juncture in their careers, this fight is poised to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.