On Friday, “the queen” Phetjeeja Lukjaoprongtom dethroned former Atomweight Kickboxing champion, Janet Todd.
ONE Fight 20 marked the end of the Todd’s 10-year career and the breakthrough of Lukjaoprontom’s kickboxing success.
Todd and Lukjaoprontom headlined the all-female lineup in celebration of International Women’s Dayfrom the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
In the first round, the 22-year-old interim title holder came out strong. For the most part, her Japanese-American opponent was able to keep up, despite the 16-year age gap.
As the rounds continued, it was clear that the Thai fighter was lighter on her toes, One Fighting Championship reported. Throwing powerful left jabs and right body kicks, Lukjaoprontom was in the spotlight.
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During the final round, with less than a minute left, Todd delivered a powerful kick, but her opponent was prepared and knocked Todd off balance. The referee gave Todd a 10-second count and Todd remained down in a decisive moment. This signaled the end of one fighter’s career and opened the door to future success for the other.
In a 208-6 vote, Lukjaoprontom was crowned the new One women’s atom weight kickboxing world champion.
After her victory, Lukjaoprontom told the South China Morning Post, “I felt a little bit of pressure because I knew I was facing a talented fighter, but now I feel very relieved.” She continued, “The plan was simple, to not back down and use my left kick and next I want the Muay Thai belt.”
According to the South China Morning Post, although Todd’s career did not end in success, she has had a victorious journey. The retired fighter bid farewell with 50 fights under her belt, and out of those, she faced only 13 losses.
“I Just want to say thank you to all the friends and fans that supported me, I got to learn so much about myself and what I’m capable of,” Todd said. “I hope I can inspire others to do the same.”
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