Alexis “Barboza” Nicolas is bracing for what could be the biggest win in his life both inside and outside the ring.

On Friday, April 5, the Frenchman will face Regian “The Immortal” Eersel for the ONE Lightweight Kickboxing World Championship in the main event of ONE Fight Night 21: Eersel vs Nicolas.

The event goes down on U.S. Primetime inside the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. 

Alexis Nicolas: From humble background to verge of stardom

Nicolas had to fight for everything that he has right now. Growing up with an abusive father that he had to run away from, “Barboza” rose through the ranks in the competitive European kickboxing scene to catch the attention of ONE.

Upon joining the world’s largest martial arts organization at ONE Friday Fights 47 earlier this year, he notched his win number 23 in his undefeated professional career, showcasing his dynamic talents to the world. 

Now, he is on the verge of becoming a global superstar with a win over the dominant divisional king. 

Understanding the opportunity in front of him, Nicolas told ONE that he is ready to seize the moment, motivated by the journey he had to take to reach this moment. 

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“What gives me confidence is my story. It’s what I’ve lived through and also the work that I’ve put into it. It’s my whole history and how I got to where I am today. It’s my work ethic. And I’ve got nothing to lose,” he said. 

“Everybody is saying it’s too soon to be in the ring with a guy like Eersel, but I’ve been working all my life for fights like this.”

Alexis Nicolas will look to end the winning run of Regian Eersel

“The Immortal” will arguably be the most difficult fighter that Nicolas has ever had to face so far in his career.

The Surinamese striker has been perfect in his 10-fight run in ONE, capturing and successfully defending both the ONE Lightweight Muay Thai and Kickboxing World Titles in the process. 

Understandably, Eersel will come in as a favorite in their main event clash this weekend. However, Nicolas says no matter the outcome, he will have already opened up plenty of opportunities for himself by being part of ONE.

“Nobody has given me any chance in this. I started from scratch, from nothing. I’m really happy about this opportunity with ONE,” he said. 

“Even if I don’t win this, signing a contract with ONE, I will have other opportunities to prove that I’m the best. I’m really proud of the fact that I can actually bring something more – coming from nothing – I will bring more back to France, the title and prestige.”

ONE Fight Night 21 is available live and free to all Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.

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