The world’s largest martial arts organization returns to Bangkok’s iconic Lumpinee Stadium for another explosive installment of its weekly series, ONE Friday Fights 136, on December 12. The event features 12 dynamic bouts across Muay Thai, kickboxing, MMA, and submission grappling, showcasing elite strikers and ambitious rising stars vying for a US$100,000 ONE Championship contract.

In the main event, legendary Thai striker Panpayak Jitmuangnon seeks redemption after a devastating knockout loss, as he faces dangerous Chinese finisher Zhao Chongyang in a flyweight kickboxing showdown. Meanwhile, undefeated Russian prodigy Maksim Bakhtin meets Iranian powerhouse Abolfazl “White Wolf” Alipourandi in a compelling lightweight Muay Thai matchup.

Seven-Time World Champion Panpayak at a Career Crossroads

This main event marks a critical moment in the storied career of “The Angel Warrior” Panpayak Jitmuangnon, who is attempting to halt a worrying decline that threatens his long-established elite status.

The 29-year-old striker —a seven-time Muay Thai World Champion and three-time Sports Writers of Thailand Fighter of the Year— entered ONE Championship with elite credentials and a devastating technical arsenal anchored by his famous left body kick. But since his return in October 2024, Panpayak has faced ruthless competition that has tested him in ways few anticipated.

His most recent appearance ended in a shocking first-round knockout loss to Asadula Imangazaliev in August, raising questions about whether he still possesses the reflexes and resilience needed to compete with hungry, younger opponents.

Now, facing knockout specialist Zhao Chongyang, Panpayak must rediscover his championship form to remain relevant in ONE’s increasingly stacked flyweight Muay Thai division.

Zhao, 28, announced himself with a stunning second-round head-kick knockout at ONE Friday Fights 124. His comeback performance —after being dominated in round one— showcased the mentality, explosiveness and killer instinct that make him such a dangerous challenger. For Zhao, this main event represents the biggest opportunity of his career and a chance to break into contract contention with a statement victory.

Undefeated Bakhtin Meets Last-Minute Threat Alipourandi

The featured attraction delivers a fascinating clash between unbeaten rising star Maksim Bakhtin and Iranian knockout artist Abolfazl Alipourandi, who steps in on short notice after the withdrawal of Mustafa Al-Tekreeti.

Bakhtin, 22, has impressed with two consecutive knockout victories inside ONE Championship, utilizing unpredictable, creative striking that includes spinning elbows and flying attacks. But Alipourandi poses a serious threat.

The Iranian standout —holding a 16–5 record— is coming off one of the most impressive debuts in recent ONE history: a brutal 59-second knockout of Liam Nolan at ONE Fight Night 31. His power, size, and veteran savvy make him a dangerous opponent for anyone, especially in a short-notice scenario where he has little to lose and everything to gain.

This matchup pits Bakhtin’s dynamic creativity against Alipourandi’s proven knockout power, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown.

Full Fight Card – ONE Friday Fights 136

• Panpayak Jitmuangnon vs. Zhao Chongyang (Flyweight Kickboxing)
• Petkhaokradong Lukjaomaesaithong vs. Ali Kelat (Lightweight Muay Thai)
• Suesat Manop Gym vs. Chokpreecha PK TomTKalaiyont (Strawweight Muay Thai)
• Chatpichit Sor Sor Toipadriew vs. Har Ling Om (Atomweight Muay Thai)
• Kraithong PU Phabai vs. Petkongfa Wor TechnoLuangPuSuang (Flyweight Muay Thai)
• Sarah Gohier vs. Ichrak Laroussi (Strawweight Muay Thai)
• Maksim Bakhtin vs. Abolfazl Alipourandi (Lightweight Muay Thai)
• Amir Naseri vs. Zhang Jinhu (Flyweight Muay Thai)
• Israel Dos Santos vs. Takuma Ota (Flyweight Muay Thai)
• Petdam Siterawan vs. Hiroyuki (Strawweight Muay Thai)
• Cueng Naibaho vs. Lee Seung Chul (Strawweight MMA)
• Jack Sear vs. Shoya Ishiguro (Bantamweight Submission Grappling)