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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

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Christian Lee (right) hugs younger brother Adrian after the latter won his professional debut against Antonio Mammarella in Bangkok last Saturday. Photo: ONE Championship

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.

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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.

Christian Lee (right) was in the corner for his younger brother, Adrian. Photo: ONE Championship
Christian Lee (right) was in the corner for his younger brother, Adrian. Photo: ONE Championship

“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.”

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ONE 168 is set for Denver on September 6 could be a realistic target for Lee’s comeback.

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