Lebanon's Abdallah Ondash confident on ONE Championship mission
DUBAI: Lebanese Muay Thai star Abdallah Ondash is putting the final touches to preparations for the biggest matchup of his career.
For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport
The young Lebanese athlete features in the main event of global martial arts organization ONE Championship's ONE Friday Fights 112 on June 13 inside Bangkok's historic Lumpinee Stadium.
Ondash is no stranger to the iconic venue. He made a remarkable debut in the weekly fight series on Aug. 4, 2023, coming from behind to knock out his opponent with one second to go on the clock. The highlight-reel finish amazed fans worldwide who tune in every week as rising talents in the world of martial arts vie for a big contract and a place on ONE Championship's international roster.
Ondash is oozing confidence ahead of his next mission, and said: 'I want to focus and take my time (during the fight). Hopefully, I will win this fight. I don't like talking much about fights; I let my performance in the ring do the talking.'
The 23-year-old Lebanese fighter has an impressive resume. Since turning professional in 2017, Ondash has amassed an overall professional record of 21-2, and picked up national, regional, and global accolades.
But the rising star knows he has a tough test on Friday as he takes on Thai opponent Singdomthong Nokjeanladkrabang in a 57.6 kg contest.
The 28-year-old holds a 6-1 record at ONE Friday Fights. The two fighters are evenly matched in their height, weight, and reach, but the Thai is far more experienced, with 84 career wins and accolades that include the World Muaythai Council's Featherweight Muay Thai world title and IFMA World Championship.
Ondash has nothing but respect for his opponent, and said: 'He (has) won six out of seven and lost one fight by the smallest of margins. He is a good fighter and has won lots of accolades.'
With two grueling training sessions per day for five weeks, Ondash has been focusing his efforts on improving his conditioning, cardio and fitness to keep up with an experienced fighter known for his slick movement and endurance.
However, Ondash owns the skill set, courage, and in-ring intelligence to claim what could be a pivotal win in his career.
He secured his third knockout victory at the expense of Thailand's Petlampun in his most recent fight, bouncing back from a lone majority decision defeat he endured at the hands of Chokpreecha last July.
Ondash knows that victory against an established star will take him closer to the dream of winning a $100,000 contract with ONE Championship.
He said: '(Following my defeat) I won the next fight by knockout. So, if I had won that fight, even if by decision, I could have gotten the contract. But I am just focusing on my next fight. I want to win.'
ONE Friday Fights 112 begins at 3:30 p.m. KSA on Friday, June 13, and will be broadcast live via beIN SPORTS.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arab News
an hour ago
- Arab News
EuroLeague welcomes Dubai Basketball for 2025-26 season
DUBAI: EuroLeague announced its expansion from 18 to 20 teams in late May, and Dubai Basketball have now been confirmed as one of the two new teams to secure a coveted spot for the 2025-26 season. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport Dubai Basketball enjoyed a historic debut season in the ABA League, reaching the playoff semifinals before being halted by European powerhouse Partizan. Although their campaign ended short of the final, finishing in third overall, the season laid a strong foundation for what promises to be a defining second season for the club. Abdulla Saeed Juma Al-Naboodah, chairman and founder of Dubai Basketball, said: 'I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the leadership of Dubai and the Dubai Sports Council for their unwavering support. Their vision and commitment have been instrumental in making the success of Dubai Basketball possible.' And, coached by Jurica Golemac, Dubai Basketball are now set to make their EuroLeague debut in 2025-26, going head-to-head with some of the most celebrated basketball teams in what is widely recognized as one of the toughest leagues in the world. Facing the likes of Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Panathinaikos, Olympiacos, and reigning champions Fenerbahce, Dubai Basketball will bring top-tier European basketball to the Coca-Cola Arena from September to June. Dejan Kamenjasevic, the co-founder and co-chief executive officer of Dubai Basketball, said: 'Dubai Basketball is not an instant project; it has taken us years to reach the point we are at today. But it brings me great pride to say that this team is an instant success. 'Credit goes to our coaches, players and all Dubai Basketball employees, who worked hard to convert this dream to a reality. Now, with EuroLeague ahead, we have even more to show. 'We're building something this city has never seen before, and we're excited to make history while growing the Dubai Basketball family.' Dubai Basketball attracted nearly 80,000 fans to the Coca-Cola Arena in their first season, paving the way for a new era for the sport in the region. As the only Middle Eastern team represented in the ABA League last season, Dubai had something to prove from day one. Backed by a passionate and growing fan base, the club continue to be fueled by the belief and support of the community. The side have firmly established themselves as top contenders in European basketball. With a seasoned coach who brings both professional playing experience and leadership at the highest levels of European basketball, and a talented roster including players fresh from the NBA and the EuroLeague, the team's story is just beginning. All home games will continue to be held at the Coca-Cola Arena, which boasts a capacity of 15,000 in its basketball format. As the club enter the longest season in EuroLeague history, they will welcome Europe's strongest teams to the heart of the city — marking a major milestone for basketball in the UAE and the entire region.
Arab News
a day ago
- Arab News
Nour Al-Fliti looking to hand Hattan Alsaif first MMA loss
RIYADH: One of Saudi Arabia's biggest mixed martial arts stars, Hattan Alsaif, will make her highly anticipated return to the Professional Fighters League SmartCage at PFL MENA 2 in Riyadh on July 4. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport And while all eyes will be on the hometown hero, who is aiming for her third straight amateur MMA win, a rising star from Lebanon is preparing to step into enemy territory and hoping to steal the spotlight. Standing across from Alsaif will be Nour Al-Fliti, a multiple Lebanese MMA champion and International Mixed Martial Arts Federation Asian Championship silver medalist who currently holds a 1-1 amateur record. Before MMA, however, Al-Fliti lived a completely different life. 'Before MMA, I worked in the hospitality field as an operations manager,' she revealed. 'I studied that field and I worked in it since 2019. I enjoyed it, but I felt that something was missing. If I hadn't found MMA, I think I'd still be searching for that something to ignite the fire in me.' With MMA, Al-Fliti discovered the outlet she had been searching for. Judging by her growing list of accomplishments, it has been a successful transition. 'I got into MMA because I felt a powerful energy inside me — it was something I needed to express,' Al-Fliti said. 'I've always had a fighter's spirit, but I didn't know where it belonged until I stepped into the cage.' MMA provided more than just competition, she added: 'From my very first fight, I felt a deep connection. It wasn't just about competition … it was about purpose. That moment made me realize this is where I'm meant to be.' Al-Fliti believes her greatest achievement in MMA goes beyond medals and accolades — it is the personal transformation she has undergone. 'My biggest achievement so far is finding myself through this sport,' she explained. 'Every fight, every camp, every challenge has shaped me, not just as a fighter, but as a person. Of course, winning and improving technically are important, but the real win is the growth I've experienced mentally and spiritually.' While she acknowledges the support of her team and loved ones, Al-Fliti is clear about where her ultimate source of strength lies. 'My biggest supporter is Allah first,' she exclaimed. 'I truly believe that my path is written, and I draw strength from that. 'And I'm also deeply grateful to my family and my team — the people who believe in me, push me, and never let me forget who I am, even during the toughest moments.' On paper, it may seem like Al-Fliti has the odds stacked against her. Alsaif has more experience and will be fighting in front of a home crowd. Al-Fliti, however, doesn't see it that way. 'Hattan is a determined fighter with her own style, and I respect anyone who steps into the cage, but I never see myself as the underdog,' she said. 'I trust in my preparation, in my skills and, most importantly, in my belief in myself and in Allah. I've prepared with focus, discipline and a clear mindset.' On July 4, Al-Fliti does not plan to simply walk into the SmartCage — she will make her presence felt: 'I'm not just showing up — I'm coming to make a statement, inshallah.' Tickets for PFL MENA 2 can be purchased at
Arab News
2 days ago
- Arab News
Acclaim for Bounou, Al-Dawsari as world reacts to Al-Hilal's performance against Real Madrid
DUBAI: An impressive 1-1 draw by Al-Hilal against Spanish giants Real Madrid in the FIFA World Club Cup has drawn praise from football fans and media alike, with goalkeeper Yassine 'Bono' Bounou and captain Salem Al-Dawsari receiving particular attention. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport Al-Dawsari caused a stir among the media, who recalled his heroics in scoring Saudi Arabia's winner against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, while Bounou was a key player for Morocco who reached the semifinals in the same tournament. There was also recognition of the role played by Simone Inzaghi, the new Al-Hilal coach, who took over the reins following his departure from UEFA Champions League finalists Inter Milan. 'For Al-Hilal, many foreign players who now play for the club have experience at top teams and stages of tournaments, like Manchester City and World Cup semifinals,' wrote the Washington Post after the encounter at Hard Rock Stadium in Washington. 'Inzaghi has made a big step after guiding Inter Milan to two Champions League finals, now stepping out of his comfort zone.' Al Jazeera said Real Madrid had labored to the 1-1 result draw against a spirited Al-Hilal and that 'Simone Inzaghi's men showed defensive grit and enough attacking intent to rattle their illustrious opponents.' Inzaghi's influence was immediately evident on Al Hilal. Great coach — (@CR_74_) June 18, 2025 The BBC compared the Al-Hilal coach's debut to that of opposite number Xabi Alonso, saying: 'Inzaghi will likely be the more satisfied, with his unfancied Al-Hilal side impressing and threatening to deliver a remarkable result even without a prolific marksman of their own, given Aleksandar Mitrovic was ruled out through injury.' It was on social media, however, that the impact of Al-Hilal's performance reverberated most. Many commenters highlighted the challenges posed by 33-year-old Al-Dawsari to Real Madrid debutant Trent Alexander Arnold, who was involved in one of the most high-profile transfers of the summer when he joined the Saudi club from Liverpool just weeks ago. 'I was raving about Salem Al-Dawsari during the Arabian Gulf Cup as one of the best players I have ever seen. An unbelievable talent and Real Madrid found that out for themselves,' journalist David Rhys Williams wrote on X. Seb Stafford-Bloor of The Athletic echoed the sentiments in his own tweet: 'Salem Al-Dawsari is a super player — and he's had an excellent half. Causing all kinds of problems down Real's right.' One user said: 'Trent getting dunked on by Salem Al-Dawsari,' while another commented: 'Trent getting cooked by Al-Dawsari.' Others posted memes of the Al-Hilal player's success in the head-to-head battle. Cold hands in the heat of the battle. @Alhilal_FC | #FIFACWC — FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 19, 2025 Meanwhile, Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois praised Bounou after a stoppage-time penalty save against Frederico Valverde secured a precious point for Al-Hilal. 'Fede has a very strong shot but he does not look at the keeper. Bounou moved early and could reach it. Bounou is good at penalties,' said Courtois. Real Madrid were awarded a controversial 90th minute penalty after Mohammed Al Qahtani caught Fran Garcia. Up stepped Federico Valverde, but his effort was well saved by Yassine Bounou down to his right.#FIFACWC @DAZNFootball — The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) June 18, 2025 On X, @Medias24, with over 180,000 followers, said: 'A world-renowned drill specialist, Yassine Bounou, once again demonstrated his instincts against Real Madrid. Marca praises him, FIFA celebrates him, and the numbers confirm: the Moroccan goalkeeper has become a global icon.' Meanwhile Moroccan football account @MoroccanGrinta proudly tweeted: 'Penalty in the 90th minute against Real Madrid? Not a problem when you have Yassine Bounou. The Atlas Lion delivers a masterclass and secures a crucial point for Al-Hilal.' Sports News Africa posted a video of Bounou's save and said: 'We'll let you watch yet another save from the best African goalkeeper in history against the GREAT Real Madrid. Yassine Bounou…'
