‘Let’s Break The Curse’ – Nabil Anane Shaves His Head, Promises Epic Comeback After The Inner Circle 25
Former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nabil Anane faced a challenging setback in his journey back to the gold, as he dropped a closely contested split decision to three-division Lumpinee Stadium World Champion Suakim PongSuphan PK this past Friday, August 7.
The highly anticipated ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title eliminator unfolded in the main event of The Inner Circle 25, which emanated live from Bangkok’s historic Lumpinee Stadium and streamed in Asia primetime exclusively via live.onefc.com.
That high-stakes showdown carried massive implications for the bantamweight Muay Thai division, with the victor securing a direct path to the reigning king, Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon.
The 6-foot-4 phenom displayed his otherworldly Muay Thai skills throughout the bout, fighting valiantly until the final bell sounded. However, a crucial knockdown in the second round resulting from a brilliantly timed left hook and knee by Suakim placed Anane behind on the judges’ scorecards.
Despite an impressive late surge to close the distance in the third and final stanza, that pivotal sequence ultimately tipped the scales in favor of the 30-year-old Thai veteran, who also walked away with a US$50,000 performance bonus from ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong.
While the narrow defeat marks his second consecutive loss, the Algerian-Thai superstar is handling the adversity with remarkable grace and a refreshing sense of humor. True to a lighthearted pre-fight promise, Anane took to social media shortly after the event to reveal a completely shaved head to his followers.
Embracing the moment, the 22-year-old skyscraper said:
“Yes guys, I’m alright. I’m home now. I just lost my fight against Suakim. Anyway, before the fight, I said I’d shave my head if I lost. Although I meant it as a joke at first. But let’s just ‘break the curse.’
“Thank you all for the support. Congratulations to Suakim on his victory. I’ll be back soon. I still have plenty of time. See you guys.”
While Anane’s road to reclaiming the undisputed bantamweight gold has temporarily lengthened, the Algerian-Thai dynamo remains entirely steadfast in his mission.
Armed with explosive striking, massive knockout power in all eight limbs, his trademark heart, and a newly refreshed mindset, Anane possesses all the tools necessary to climb back to the mountaintop in a hurry.
