Yutaro Asahi Returns to ONE to Face Petchtanong in Generational Clash at ONE Samurai 5
Japanese fighter Yutaro Asahi is making his return to ONE Championship with a significant challenge ahead. At 27 years old, he will take on 40-year-old Thai fighter Petchtanong Petchfergus, a former world bantamweight kickboxing champion of the organization. The matchup is set for November 18, a Wednesday, at ONE Samurai 5, taking place at the Ebara Wave Arena Ota in Tokyo, Japan.
The fight will be contested under kickboxing rules in the featherweight division (145 to 155 pounds), pitting two athletes at different stages of their careers against each other. On one side, Yutaro aims to capitalize on his return to gain traction within the organization. On the other, Petchtanong seeks to get back on track for a title shot.
Yutaro has not competed in ONE for over two years, but his last appearance left a mark. In April 2024, at ONE Lumpinee 58, the Japanese fighter defeated Seksan Or. Kwanmuang by unanimous decision in a Muay Thai bout.
That night, he became the first fighter to halt Seksan's winning streak within ONE.
Following that victory, Yutaro continued to compete in Japan. He currently holds a record of 16 wins in 24 professional fights and aims to leverage the advantage of fighting at home to take down a former champion and relaunch his career in ONE.
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Petchtanong, on the other hand, arrives with an impressive resume. The Thai fighter captured the ONE bantamweight kickboxing title at the end of 2022 and has won four of his six bouts against top-tier opponents in the organization.
His most recent fight was in May at ONE Fight Night 43, where he defeated British fighter Ben Wullis by unanimous decision. Now, his goal is to secure another victory and move closer to another title shot in ONE.
This matchup also draws attention due to the contrasting styles.
According to ONE Japan, Yutaro possesses long reach, kicks influenced by taekwondo and karate, and sharp knees. These weapons may help him manage distance and explore various angles of attack.
Petchtanong, conversely, is a southpaw with a powerful left middle kick and refined defense.
At ONE Samurai 5, youth and the home advantage will face off against experience. For both fighters, the outcome could significantly impact their next steps within ONE.
Source: MuayThaiStand / ONE Championship
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