Johanna Persson is set to step into the competitive world of ONE Championship, facing the formidable and long-standing champion, Allycia Rodrigues.
Making her debut in ONE Championship, the accomplished Swedish striker Persson faces a significant challenge. She will compete against the reigning atomweight queen, Allycia Rodrigues, in the main event of ONE Fight Night 33.
This will be Persson`s first time competing in the smaller 4oz gloves against the promotion`s longest-reigning champion. The high-stakes bout takes place at the renowned Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok.
Unlike many fighters who begin training early in life, Persson discovered Muay Thai later, at the age of 23 while studying at university. She successfully channeled the energy from her active childhood into combat sports. What began as a casual interest quickly transformed into a deep passion. A major highlight of her career came in April when she secured the WBC Muay Thai world title in Scotland.
Now holding both ISKA and WBC world championships, the 29-year-old believes she is ready for the biggest test of her career under the bright lights of ONE Championship.
Reflecting on her ONE Championship signing, Persson shared, “Getting the call felt incredible, almost unreal at first. But deep down, I knew this is exactly what I`m meant to be doing.”
Persson was already in peak physical condition, preparing for a different fight, when ONE offered her a multi-fight deal that included an immediate shot at the title. For her, the decision was simple and immediate.
“There was absolutely nothing to think about,” she stated. “I accepted without any hesitation.”
Persson acknowledged the compliment from ONE, saying, “ONE labeling me as Europe`s top female striker is a tremendous honor. However, for me, the focus remains solely on the dedication and effort I put in every single day.”
Rodrigues` Dominance
Standing opposite her is Allycia Hellen Rodrigues, a powerful Brazilian fighter who has maintained an unbeaten streak in the atomweight division since capturing the title in 2020. Rodrigues is widely recognized for her expert control, utilizing sharp timing and strategic fight intelligence to systematically wear down her opponents.
Rodrigues recently demonstrated her striking power with a stoppage victory over British competitor Marie McManamon in March. This followed a commanding performance and win against Christina Morales the previous year.
This upcoming bout will be Rodrigues`s fourth defense of her title in the atomweight class. Her only loss in ONE Championship was in a heavier division. The champion has faced difficulties in staying consistently active, with her planned fight against Shir Cohen last month being canceled for the second time. This has left her particularly eager to return to competition.
Despite these recent scheduling issues, Rodrigues`s record in ONE Championship at 115lbs remains perfect, and she shows no signs of slowing down. A successful title defense would solidify her place as the most accomplished Muay Thai champion in the history of the promotion.
Persson expressed respect for her opponent`s capabilities.
“She is a tough, experienced, and very intelligent fighter,” Persson conceded.
She continued, “She makes very few mistakes and is excellent at controlling the tempo of the fight. My challenge will be to disrupt her rhythm, shift the momentum, and force the fight to happen on my terms – all while ensuring I don`t become reckless.”
The necessity of competing with ONE Championship`s distinctive 4oz gloves presents another specific hurdle for Persson.
“This will also be my inaugural fight in small gloves, which in itself will be a significant challenge,” she highlighted.
Nevertheless, with her coach Davis Lehnberg guiding her and having spent the final weeks of her fight camp training at the renowned Sitjaopho Gym in Thailand, Persson feels well-prepared for the monumental occasion.
This title fight pits the hungry challenger`s striking power and unpredictable style against the reigning champion`s established technical mastery. The key question remains: Will Rodrigues further cement her historical dominance in ONE Championship, or can Persson`s relentless pressure result in a stunning upset victory?
