"I found the key to beat him" - Regian Eersel extremely satisfied to finally solve Alexis Nicolas' puzzle
Regian Eersel became the first fighter to defeat Alexis Nicolas in combat sports after a mesmerizing five-round striking war at ONE Fight Night 25 last Oct. 4.
By doing so, the reigning lightweight Muay Thai world champion regained the lightweight kickboxing crown and re-solidified his status as a prestigious two-sport world champion.
Speaking during the ONE Fight Night 25 post-event interview, Eersel gave Nicolas his flowers for going unbeaten in his first 24 career bouts.
Still, the Surinamese star admits taking great pleasure in getting even with his tormentor and ending that streak.
'The Immortal' shared:
"Alexis is a challenging opponent because of his fighting style. He's very quick. His fighting [style] is unique, but you saw I found the key to beat him."
Learning from his initial setback against 'Barboza' last April, Regian Eersel came out on a mission in the rematch and followed his game plan to the tee.
The Sityodtong Amsterdam man utilized elite movement and mastery of angles to close the distance, which neutralized Nicolas' strong kicking game.
Eersel's punches were also much sharper and carried more weight than the last time, as he was able to outbox the Frenchman, who is known for his ridiculous hand speed.
Regian Eersel says immediate trilogy with Alexis Nicolas is unnecessary
After splitting their first two meetings, it's safe to say that Eersel and Nicolas will inevitably collide a third time to settle their differences.
However, as far as 'The Immortal' is concerned, it doesn't have to be right away.
"No, not right now that he didn't win. Maybe in the future," he shared in the post-fight interview.
For now, Regian Eersel is eager to return to 'The Art of Eight Limbs' and defend his lightweight Muay Thai world title for his next appearance.
The full replay of ONE Fight Night 25 is available on demand for Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.