Ham Seo Hee Talks Hirata Victory, Excited For World Title Opportunity

Ham Seo Hee kicked off her 2023 in style last Saturday, and the ramifications of the South Korean star’s impressive win are as positive as they come. 

“Hamzzang” picked up her most notable victory in ONE Championship against talented Japanese prospect Itsuki Hirata in their atomweight MMA tie at ONE Fight Night 8 in Singapore on March 25th. 

And ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong was quick to announce that she will challenge for the coveted divisional crown next, following the bout.

The contest was a highly anticipated one, given that it was cancelled at the eleventh hour last year due to Hirata failing to make weight, and those same issues weighed heavy on Ham’s mind leading up to it this time.

Training for one opponent for so long with the possibility of it falling through at the last minute was not something Ham wanted to face twice.

“I was just really not sure if the fight was actually going to materialize,” Ham admitted. “I was just worried that my efforts would come to nothing like they did last time.” 

When the Circle doors slammed shut last Saturday, though, there were no hints of such anxiety. 

“Hamzzang” was dominant throughout the three rounds, working her stand-up game to perfection to nullify any threat from Hirata. When the final bell sounded, the judges had an easy job in handing her the unanimous decision win.

Now, following her third straight victory in ONE, Ham is set to reap the reward she has been seeking since signing with ONE – a shot at the ONE Atomweight World Title.

Having won titles around Asia, the Busan banger couldn’t be more pleased with the opportunity.

“I was very happy,” Ham beamed. 

“I got chills when I heard directly from Mr. Chatri Sityodtong. It’s the only thing I’ve wanted since joining this organization, and I’m very excited.”