“It was just incredible to watch and be a part of” - Chatri Sityodtong blown away by massive Denver crowd at Ball Arena for ONE 168
ONE Championship chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong couldn't believe just how much of a massive hit ONE 168: Denver was, when his promotion hit the Ball Arena last month.
ONE graced the home of 2023 NBA World Champion Denver Nuggets, electrifying a capacity crowd who came to see the world's best martial arts talent.
In the end, it was a magical night to remember, and Sityodtong was absolutely blown away by the warm reception from American fans.
Speaking to the media in an interview after the show, Sityodtong had this to say about ONE 168: Denver:
"It was outstanding. We more than doubled our ticket sales. We effectively sold out the whole stadium. And this is the NBA, Denver Nuggets and it was like 95 percent or something like that, sold out. It was incredible, the reception we received from American fans."
Sityodtong was also particularly shocked at just how well Superlek Kiatmoo9, who defeated Jonathan Haggerty in the main event to become the ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion, was cheered on by fans in the stadium.
He added:
"I think Superlek got the loudest standing ovation from the fans when he came out with his walkout. It was just electric, I mean, yeah, he was just up in the stadium. We actually had some broadcast issues, and [also] lighting, so the stadium was darker than normal because we had some lighting difficulties. But if you were there at the stadium, it was just mind-blowing. Mind-blowing. Just the energy, the capacity, the crowd. It was just incredible to watch and be a part of."
What's next for ONE Championship?
The world's largest martial arts organization returns to the 'land of a thousand smiles' this weekend.
ONE Fight Night 25: Nicolas vs. Eersel II on Prime Video broadcasts live from the historic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, Oct. 4.
In the main event, Dutch-Surinamese veteran 'The Immortal' Regian Eersel will face 'Barboza' Alexis Nicolas of France in a five-round rematch for the ONE lightweight kickboxing world title.
Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live and absolutely free on Amazon Prime Video. Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding the event.