ONE Championship: Christian Lee says there were ‘no contenders’ for title belts in absence
- Lee is targeting a comeback later this year with ONE 168 on September 6 a realistic option to return
Christian Lee is aiming to make a return to the ONE Championship circuit and defend his lightweight title belt before the end of the year but does not believe there have been any contenders for his crown during his absence.
The 25-year-old, who is also the welterweight champion, has not fought since 2022, and one of the main reasons for his time off was the death of his younger sister, Victoria, who committed suicide in December that year.
Lee thanked ONE Championship for allowing him to hold on to his two belts despite almost two years of inactivity, but said he does not believe he has robbed anyone of a title shot while he has been away.
“I’m grateful that I’ve been given a little bit of time off,” he said. “However, there haven’t been any clear contenders at lightweight or welterweight.
“Although I’ve been out of the game I don’t feel that anyone is knocking at the door. I’m looking forward to seeing who comes up.”
ONE 168 is set for Denver on September 6 could be a realistic target for Lee’s comeback.
With only four fights confirmed for that card, there is still space available for fighters looking to showcase their talent to an American audience – something Lee, who calls Hawaii home, has never done.
“It’s been important to take some time off and come back refreshed with a fresh start, being able to go out there and focus on the goal,” he said. “I’ll definitely be training for a fight in September. Denver would be great.”
Lee has been following the action in the ring closely during his time away from the ring to scout potential next opponents.
“I’ve been watching the lightweight and welterweight divisions and right now I think we’ve got a clear contender in the OK Rae Yoon and Alibeg match-up,” he said. “I think the winner will be the No 1 contender for the division. I will be watching that closely and will see if I can defend my belt before the end of the year.”
Asked about contenders for his welterweight title, Lee added: “Zebaztian Kadestam is one of the clear runners for a title shot. He’s a former champion and he’s coming off a great knockout over Roberto Soldic.”
During his break, Lee has been focused on coaching, and was in Bangkok last weekend to corner for his younger brother, Adrian, who was making his ONE Championship debut, and said the break had had a positive impact.
“I’m excited to get back into the ONE circle myself but right now I’m excited to be coaching him and be on the other side,” Lee said after spending time working in his brother’s corner. “Instead of me doing all the work I’m happy to sit on the sidelines and watch him work.”
