China has its first major MMA male champion as Tang Kai outworked Thanh Le over the course of 25 minutes to claim the featherweight title Friday at ONE Championship 160 in Singapore.
The judges scored the fight a unanimous decision for Tang, who joins former UFC strawweight champion Zhang Weili as the only two Chinese fighters to win major MMA titles.
It was the first time both Tang, 26, and Le, 36, went into deep waters. Tang (15-2) hadn’t fought past the second round and Le (13-3) past the third prior to ONE Championship 160.
Leg kicks were Tang Kai's best weapon as he outworked Thanh Le to win a unanimous decision and claim the featherweight title. 🦵#ONE160 pic.twitter.com/Ammqs34o63
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) August 26, 2022
Tang and Le put on a show, but Tang’s crisp striking proved to be the difference. Tang especially found success with lead leg kicks throughout the fight, which caused visible damage to Le’s thighs and calves. It didn’t matter if Le stood orthodox or southpaw, Tang tenderized both sides.
Even so, Tang was never out of danger as Le was relentless with his attack. Le had his moments, but Tang proved to be elusive in avoiding all of the big punches. He was effective with his counter-striking.
Tang managed to drop Le twice – once with a leg kick and once with a hard counter-punch.
