ONE Championship’s unique philosophy in recruiting elite fighters

Chatri Sityodtong reveals ONE Championship’s unique philosophy in recruiting elite fighters — the organization doesn’t just seek the best athletes, but those who possess true fighter mentality.

“We look for the best of the best, we try to find athletes who come to finish their opponents. Again, I don’t mean finish in a bad way,” explains Sityodtong.

The concept of finishing opponents refers to the fundamental essence of martial arts — as an effective means of self-defense.

“Self-defense isn’t about dancing around for points, it’s not about taking someone down then waiting for judges to score. It’s about stopping an intruder who comes to your house, someone who comes to harm your family.”

Sityodtong emphasizes that the bushido spirit and samurai warrior soul are the essence of every ONE Championship athlete — evidenced by their 70 percent finishing rate.

“That spirit, that bushido, that samurai warrior spirit lives in ONE and lives in our athletes. That’s why we have a 70 percent finishing rate.”