Chatri Sityodtong, the CEO of ONE Championship, is not just a businessman. A lifelong martial artist and a consistent Muay Thai and BJJ practitioner, he understands the fight game from both sides of the coin as a competitor and leader. This unique perspective makes him a well-rounded leader for a martial arts organization. Recently a training video of Sityodtong sparring in boxing gloves caught the attention of fans and fighters, including Jonathan Di Bella.

Former ONE Strawweight Kickboxing World Champion Jonathan Di Bella, who made a name for himself in the ONE Championship, expressed his admiration for Chatri Sityodtong in the comment box, where Sityodtong revealed the roots of his inspiration.

Chatri Sityodtong reveals his motivational origins

At 53 years old, lifelong martial artist Chatri Sityodtong defies his age in a recent training video. The video showcases Sityodtong throwing impressive punches, even captioning it “Southpaw,” revealing his southpaw stance. Fellow ONE Championship fighters took notice, with former champ Jonathan Di Bella leaving an enthusiastic ‘Let’s go‘ in the comments.

Demonstrating mutual respect, CEO Chatri Sityodtong replied to Di Bella’s comment with a heartening message, as he commented, “Watching the greatest champions perform in ONE always inspires.“

This exchange highlights Sityodtong’s professionalism while showcasing his passion for the sport. It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first time a fellow ONE fighter has acknowledged the CEO’s martial arts skills. A few weeks back, three-time Muay Thai World Champion Liam Harrison also praised Sityodtong’s abilities.

Liam Harrison highlights ONE CEO Chatri Sityodtong’s specialty

In a recent interview with Essentially Sports, Liam Harrison lauded Chatri Sityodtong’s approach to running ONE Championship. Harrison, who is ranked #5 in the ONE bantamweight Mauy Thai contenders, believes Sityodtong’s background as a Muay Thai practitioner fosters a unique understanding between the CEO and the fighters in the organization.

“He’s been there himself,” Harrison said, “As you say, the champ has been a martial artist and is still a martial artist now. I know he still trains regularly even though he’s busy with everything else,” Harrison continued, impressed by a recent video of Sityodtong training in his 60s.

These positive remarks highlight Sityodtong’s ability to balance the needs of the fighters with the organization’s success, making him a well-rounded entrepreneur.

Under Sityodtong’s leadership, ONE Championship has risen to the top 5 most-watched global sporting properties according to a 2021 report by Nielsen, surpassing organizations like the UFC.

Fans wonder if Sityodtong will ever step back into the ring – perhaps against UFC counterpart Dana White? What do you think? Let us know in the comments.