Superlek Kiatmoo9 and Abdulla Dayakaev will meet in a rematch at ONE Championship’s The Inner Circle event [1, 2].

The bout represents a critical turning point for both fighters. Superlek, the reigning ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion, seeks to reclaim his dominant form, while Dayakaev aims to prove his previous victory was no fluke [1, 3].

The two strikers previously met in a bout that ended in a controversial split decision [1, 3]. Dayakaev, known by the moniker "Smash Boy," has expressed confidence in his ability to secure another win. "I can do it one more time," Dayakaev said [3].

For Superlek, the preparation for this rematch follows a period of personal and professional struggle. The Thai icon, often called "The Kicking Machine," described a recent stretch as his darkest period [4]. He spoke about the mental toll of that time, stating, "I lost my identity" [4].

Superlek said he had reached a point where he "completely forgot" who he was [3]. His return to the ring at The Inner Circle is framed as an attempt to rediscover the explosive striking that earned him the world title [3, 4].

There is conflicting information regarding the exact date of the event. Some reports list the date as May 15, 2024 [2], while others indicate the fight is scheduled for Aug. 7, 2024 [1].

Despite the scheduling discrepancies, the match is positioned as a definitive resolution to the rivalry between the Thai champion and the Russian knockout specialist [1, 3].

“"I can do it one more time"”

This rematch serves as a litmus test for Superlek's mental recovery and his standing as the flyweight champion. A victory for Dayakaev would establish him as a primary contender for the title, while a win for Superlek would validate his return to form after a documented psychological slump.