ONE Championship is pulling out all the stops for its return to the United States later this year.

At ONE 168: Denver on Friday, September 6, former ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion John “Hands of Stone” Lineker is set to make his Muay Thai debut when he clashes with Asa “The American Ninja” Ten Pow inside the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado.

John Lineker’s knockout prowess vs. Ten Pow’s technique

“Hands of Stone” earned his moniker thanks to his heavy hands which have produced 18 career knockouts in MMA, including four in his promotional run in ONE. There’s little doubt that he is one of the most dangerous strikers in the all-encompassing sport, but it might be a different story when he’s not able to match his firepower with takedowns in his next fight.

And Ten Pow will certainly make it difficult for him. “The American Ninja” is riding back-to-back knockout wins in the world’s largest martial arts organization. He took out China’s Han Zi Hao at ONE Fight Night 9 in April 2023 and spoiled ONE contract winner Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon’s U.S. primetime debut at ONE Fight Night 14 five months later.

Now, the 34-year-old will put his technique to the test against the sheer power of Lineker, and it will be intriguing to see how their respective strengths match up against each other.

Exciting lineup and anticipation for ONE 168: Denver

The addition of the fight will definitely be a welcome sight for fans in North America. After all, they’ll get to see a longtime fan-favorite in Lineker competing in the United States once again, and Ten Pow’s growing popularity will only increase further when he competes on home soil.

On top of that, their clash will put extended focus on the bantamweight Muay Thai division at ONE 168.

Flyweight kickboxing king Superlek Kiatmoo9 will also be competing in the weight bracket at the thrilling show. He’ll look to add the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title to his collection when he challenges two-sport titleholder Jonathan “The General” Haggerty.

Meanwhile, British Muay Thai legend and bantamweight superstar Liam “Hitman” Harrison will make his return after a long layoff due to injury when he meets Seksan “The Man Who Yields To No One” Or Kwanmuang in a 140-pound catchweight match between battle-hardened warriors.

Expect even more news about ONE 168: Denver as the event draws near, but tickets are selling fast so secure yours through this link.