ONE Championship Releases Xiong Jingnan, Scraps Women’s Strawweight Division
ONE Championship has officially announced the closure of its women’s strawweight division. This decision includes the release of the division’s reigning champion, Xiong Jingnan. The news was confirmed to MMA Fighting, following an initial report from the Bangkok Post.
Closure of Women’s Strawweight Division
The discontinuation of the women’s strawweight division marks a significant shift within ONE Championship. In recent years, many fighters from this category had already transitioned to the atomweight division, which features competitors at 115 pounds. Strawweight fighters, on the other hand, compete at 125 pounds.
Xiong Jingnan’s Career Highlights
Xiong Jingnan made history by claiming the inaugural ONE women’s strawweight title in 2018. Throughout her tenure, she defended the belt seven times. Her only loss in the organization occurred in 2019 when she faced Angela Lee in the atomweight class. Xiong was submitted via rear-naked choke in that match.
After her earlier setback against Lee, Xiong emerged victorious in their subsequent encounters, including a final title defense in 2022. Additionally, she competed again under MMA rules in 2025, winning against Meng Bo by unanimous decision; however, she missed weight for this match.
Future for Xiong Jingnan and ONE Championship
At 38 years old, Xiong is now a free agent, marking the end of her association with the women’s strawweight division. This move reflects a broader trend within ONE Championship, as the organization has focused less on MMA fights. Instead, it has expanded its offerings in Muay Thai, kickboxing, and grappling.
Notable Releases and Upcoming Fights
- Adriano Moraes, a former ONE flyweight champion, has also received his release from ONE Championship.
- Moraes is slated to fight Muhammad Mokaev on the card featuring Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano, scheduled for May 16.
The closure of the women’s strawweight division and the release of top fighters signify a new direction for ONE Championship as it reshapes its competitive landscape.
