Overview
- Superbon defeated interim champion Masaaki Noiri by unanimous decision to reclaim the undisputed ONE featherweight kickboxing crown.
- Observers noted repeated clinching by Superbon despite kickboxing rules, and referee Olivier Coste issued no formal yellow or red card.
- ONE 173 took place at Ariake Arena in Tokyo with five championship bouts spanning MMA, kickboxing, and Muay Thai.
- A planned heavyweight title fight between Reug Reug and Anatoly Malykhin was removed after reports of a serious car accident involving the champion.
- Post-event coverage indicates Superbon intends to target a return to Muay Thai in pursuit of two-division status, with full-fight videos and highlights available online.