ONE Championship released five fighters from its roster, including MMA competitors Garry Tonon (9-2) and Magomed Akaev (10-2), plus three Muay Thai fighters: Stefan Korodi (2-3-0), Amber Kitchen (0-2-0), and Zafer Sayik (0-3-0). The post notes that while the releases of the Muay Thai fighters are understandable given poor records and lack of media presence, Tonon's departure is more surprising. Tonon fought exclusively in ONE throughout his career, achieved numerous victories, competed for a title, and is considered one of the strongest and most decorated grapplers on the planet. His release stands out as unexpected compared to the others.
ONE Championship has parted ways with five fighters from its roster, the promotion confirmed, with the cuts spanning both its MMA and Muay Thai divisions.
The most notable departure is Garry Tonon, who built his entire professional MMA career inside the ONE Circle and compiled a 9-2 record over that stretch. A highly decorated submission grappling competitor long before he transitioned to MMA, Tonon reached the level of a title challenger during his time with the promotion and is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished grapplers in combat sports. His release stands apart from the others in both profile and surprise factor.
Also cut on the MMA side is Magomed Akaev, who leaves ONE with a 10-2 professional record.
The three Muay Thai fighters departing are Stefan Korodi, Amber Kitchen, and Zafer Sayik. Korodi finishes his ONE tenure with a 2-3 record, Kitchen exits at 0-2, and Sayik departs having gone 0-3 inside the promotion. Their releases are more straightforward given limited results and a relatively low public profile within the organization.
Why it matters
- Tonon's exit removes one of ONE's most recognizable and longest-tenured MMA competitors from the roster.
- His grappling pedigree and title-contender history made him a marquee name in ONE's lightweight division.
- The Muay Thai cuts reflect a routine roster trim of fighters who struggled to build winning records or media traction.
- Akaev's departure opens further movement in his division, despite his double-digit win total suggesting he could attract interest elsewhere.
