Hiroki Akimoto vs. Wei Rui: ONE Fight Night 22 Showdown
Kickboxing Fans Eagerly Await Hiroki Akimoto’s Comeback Fight Against China’s Wei Rui
After a nearly two-year hiatus, former ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion Hiroki Akimoto is set to make his highly anticipated return to the ONE Championship circle. The Japanese star will face off against Wei Rui, a one-time Wu Lin Feng and K-1 champion, in the latter’s debut with the promotion at ONE Fight Night 22 on May 4.
Akimoto’s last appearance was a split decision loss against Petchtanong in November 2022. Petchtanong was later stripped of his title and suspended for 12 months following a positive drug test. Meanwhile, Wei Rui has been active, extending his current win streak to 20 consecutive fights during Akimoto’s time on the sidelines.
Despite Wei Rui’s impressive run, Akimoto is expected to have the edge as the younger fighter still in his prime. Fans are eager to see if the former champion can reclaim his throne and make a statement against one of China’s best in the kickboxing realm.
In a related update, ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong revealed that while the 38-year-old Petchtanong’s suspension is set to expire on June 10, he will be required to submit a negative test sample before being allowed to return to competition.
The highly anticipated clash between Akimoto and Wei Rui is sure to captivate kickboxing enthusiasts around the world, as the former champion looks to reestablish his dominance in the sport.
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