"Knees on knees" - Watch Nong-O and Kiamran Nabati dish out insane damage in close-quarters
Nong-O and Kiamran Nabati presented a thrilling Muay Thai masterclass when they last fought at ONE Friday Fights 81.
The fans predicted that they would give them a close fight, and that's exactly what they got. Nong-O, the former longtime ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world titleholder, was dangerous as usual from the start.
He made sure to get ahead on the scorecards with some great leg kicks until Nabati shifted the momentum with a big knockdown in the first round.
After that, both strikers ramped up the pace, mixing an array of techniques into their striking power, including those debilitating knees in the clinch.
This week, ONE Championship paid tribute to their epic war with a question on Instagram saying:
"Knees on KNEES. What's next for these two warriors? @nongogaiyanghadao @nabati_kiamran."
Kiamran Nabati seems to be on his way to a world title opportunity sooner rather than later. After defeating a legendary fighter like Nong-O, Nabati is certainly in a better position to fight either Superlek or Jonathan Haggerty for the bantamweight throne.
As for Nong-O, this most recent loss sets him back in his quest for Muay Thai gold. However, if we know anything about the Thai icon, is that he won't quit until he becomes champion once more.
Fans praise Nong-O's agility and endurance in Muay Thai scrap with Kiamran Nabati
Despite relinquishing his No. 2-ranked position, Nong-O never ceases to amaze the fans with his Muay Thai talents.
The 40-year-old superstar was coming off a much-needed win against Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai this past April. He then hoped to keep the momentum going and get into the world title picture, but unfortunately, Nabati was the better man that day.
However, the fans have come out in support of the former Thai champion with messages of support and awe, after watching him give Nabati a good run for his money.
Check out some of their reactions below: