“It Could Be Lifechanging” Liam Nolan Eagerly Seizes the Chance to Make History as the Inaugural British Athlete Showcased in ONE Championship

After a year filled with injuries and unexpected fight cancellations, ‘Lethal’ Liam Nolan is primed and ready for his much-anticipated return. The British sensation did not get to compete at all last year. But on January 12th, Nolan will get back to action in U.S. primetime at ONE Fight Night 18: Gasanov vs. Oh on Prime Video.

This Friday, at the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, the 26-year-old Londoner will take on promotional newcomer Ali Aliev in a critical lightweight Muay Thai bout that could put Nolan knocking on the door of a shot at the ONE Lightweight Muay Thai World Title.

Liam Nolan set for ONE Fight Night 18 debut on Sky Sports

That fight will be his first appearance since a dominant November 2022 victory over American star Eddie Abasolo, and it will be his chance to remind fans of his prodigious talent. What’s more, ONE Fight Night 18 marks the organization’s debut on Sky Sports, making Nolan the first British ONE superstar to compete on the broadcasting giant. ‘Lethal’ says he’s overjoyed to make his return on the UK’s biggest sports network: “It’s a massive opportunity so I’m very happy. I think I’m the first Brit to be on a Sky Sports card, so it’s huge to showcase my skills to everyone and a new audience. I’m excited about that.”

The British fighter had a bout lined up for a rematch against Sinsamut ‘Aquaman’ Klinmee at ONE Fight Night 16 in November 2023. Unfortunately, after a challenging training stint in Thailand, he faced an unexpected setback during the event week due to an allergic reaction, ultimately leading to his withdrawal from the contest.

With six thrilling fights in the world’s largest martial arts organization under his belt, Liam Nolan is on the cusp of becoming one of the UK’s most prominent athletes. But making his Sky Sports debut could be the ideal comeback for ‘Lethal’. He believes, “It could be life-changing.”

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The 26-year-old is keen to take advantage of the opportunity as the British fighter has drawn a parallel between his debut on Sky Sports to the debuts of other boxing stars.

Sky Sports deal might be a game-changer, according to Nolan

Liam Nolan is well aware of just how big ONE’s deal with Sky Sports could be for his career. For evidence, he looks to British boxing stars Tony Bellow and Callum Smith, both of whom have seen an explosion of their popularity, both in England and globally, after showcasing their skills on Sky Sports.

Now just days away from his showdown with Aliev, ‘Lethal’ spoke about the doors that could open as a result of competing on Sky Sports: “We’ll be able to secure bigger sponsorships because of it. When I think of Sky Sports, I think of Tony Bellow and Callum Smith and how big of a superstar they’ve become. Maybe in the future, we could be going that way. It’s extra motivation to perform on the night,” explained Liam Nolan.

It must be noted that Nolan’s original opponent was Theo Avon who had to withdraw at late notice and Ali Aliev stepped up as his replacement. The Brit might be looking at a bonus performance for the fight. What’s your opinion on their face-off?

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