ONE Heavyweight Champion Oumar “Reug Reug” Kane has been forced to postpone his upcoming title defense against Anatoly Malykhin after being involved in a serious car accident earlier this week in the United Arab Emirates.
The highly anticipated rematch was set to co-headline ONE 173 on November 16 at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena, but officials confirmed that the Senegalese powerhouse will no longer be able to compete.
“The 33-year-old Senegalese superstar was involved in a serious car accident in the United Arab Emirates and will be unable to compete inside Tokyo’s Ariake Arena on Sunday, November 16,” ONE Championship announced on social media.
“The extent of his injuries has not been disclosed, but the setback marks a devastating blow for the Senegalese superstar, who was preparing to defend his heavyweight crown for the first time in front of a massive Japanese crowd.”
Reug, who first joined ONE Championship in 2021, has been on an impressive run, boasting a 7-1 record and riding a four-fight win streak, including a split-decision victory over Malykhin last fall in Bangkok. That win earned him the heavyweight title and handed Malykhin the first loss of his professional career.
Malykhin, known for his knockout power and victories over UFC talents like Reinier de Ridder and Arjan Bhullar, was granted an immediate rematch after his dominant run through the division. The second meeting between the two heavyweights was set to settle unfinished business, but the accident has put those plans on hold.
Reug’s rise through ONE has been nothing short of remarkable, defeating names like Marcus Buchecha while bringing international attention to Senegalese wrestling’s raw power and athleticism. The setback is unfortunate for fans and the promotion, but his camp remains optimistic about his recovery.
Despite the cancellation, ONE 173 will move forward with two other title fights. Christian Lee defends his welterweight championship against Alibeg Rasulov, while Joshua Pacio steps up to flyweight to challenge Yuya Wakamatsu.
For now, all eyes are on Reug’s recovery and when he’ll return to continue his reign as ONE’s most explosive heavyweight champion.
