Sport
Superlek Kiatmoo9 Faces Long Recovery Following Knee Injury
Thai kickboxing star Superlek has suffered an ACL tear, potentially sidelining him for up to a year following his recent bout at Lumpinee Stadium.
On August 7, 2026, renowned Thai kickboxer Superlek Kiatmoo9 sustained a knee injury during his match against Russian fighter Abdulla Dayakaev at 'The Inner Circle 25' event held at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. The injury forced an early end to the fight, resulting in a second-round defeat for Superlek.
Following the event, his sports scientist and trainer, Sawikrom Limanon, confirmed the injury via social media, stating that the team is prioritizing recovery to ensure the athlete returns in peak condition. According to reports from Khaosod Online, medical assessments indicate an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, which may require a recovery period of six to twelve months.
For fans and those living in Thailand, this development is significant as it casts uncertainty over Superlek’s upcoming ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Championship title defense against Jonathan Di Bella. While the team has expressed a resilient commitment to his eventual return, the exact timeline for his comeback and the status of his championship obligations remain to be confirmed by the relevant sporting authorities. As of now, the focus remains entirely on his medical rehabilitation process.