A new ONE featherweight Muay Thai world champion emerged last week after Thai fighter Tawanchai PK Saenchai ended compatriot Petchmorakot Petchyindee's 965-day reign as divisional king.
Tawanchai earned the win after an exciting five-round main event at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, and now a new era in ONE's featherweight Muay Thai division begins.
But what could possibly be next for Thailand's fastest rising star Tawanchai?
Given the significant two-and-a-half- year stranglehold Petchmorakot had over the featherweight division and how close his bout with Tawanchai was, an immediate rematch shouldn't be ruled out.
Petchmorakot's thrilling clinch and knee style, which has led to many successful ONE world title defences on his resume, could certainly warrant an immediate clash between him and Tawanchai and determine how the former champion responds to a loss inside the circle.
Another potential match-up for Tawanchai is against his fierce rival Sittichai Sitsongpeenong.
Interestingly, Sittichai was the last man to defeat Tawanchai in Muay Thai competition in August 2021 by way of split decision.
Winning streak
Sitthichai's close win over Tawanchai kicked off a three-fight winning streak for the Buri Ram native and, if all the gold were on the line this time, it would certainly further motivate both men -- Sitthichai to claim the division's highest accolade and Tawanchai to avenge his previous loss and defend his ONE featherweight Muay Thai world title for the first time.
Also, ONE Championship could find itself with a delectable contest should a clash with the reigning ONE featherweight kickboxing world champion Superbon Singha Mawynn present itself to Tawanchai in what would be a massive super-fight.
Superbon is currently the No.2 ranked contender in ONE's featherweight Muay Thai division behind the dethroned Petchmorakot.
So, he could likely be his compatriot's next challenger.
Alternatively, Tawanchai could attempt to become a double-champ in ONE, taking on Superbon under kickboxing rules for his belt.
Given the depth of ONE's featherweight Muay Thai and kickboxing divisions, there are plenty of explosive options for Tawanchai for his very next challenge inside ONE Championship's circle.