Riding momentum into his bantamweight debut

Rising Thai sensation Worapon Lukjaoporongtom returns to Bangkok’s historic Lumpinee Stadium on November 28 for ONE Friday Fights 135, where he faces the biggest challenge of his career — moving up to the bantamweight Muay Thai division to square off against Brazilian veteran Julio Lobo. Riding high after a spectacular first-round TKO of Kongkula Jitmuangnon in October, the 23-year-old striker is determined to claim a fifth straight win and strengthen his push for the US$100,000 ONE Championship contract.

After a difficult start during his promotional run, Worapon has emerged as one of the breakthrough names of the year, establishing himself with four straight victories and impressive growth inside the ring.

His most recent finish — that devastating TKO over Kongkula at ONE Friday Fights 127 — signaled not only superior striking form, but also a new level of confidence and composure.

For the first time in two years under the ONE banner, Worapon will now compete at bantamweight, adding intrigue and unpredictability to this high-stakes showdown. Despite facing a larger and more experienced opponent, he embarks on this challenge with unwavering belief, strengthened by intensified training, renewed focus and strong family support.

Identifying weaknesses and planning to break down Lobo

Worapon has meticulously reviewed the past performances of Julio Lobo, a former Omnoi Stadium Champion known for his size, strength and battle-tested clinch work developed through years of competition in Thailand.

However, Worapon believes that the ONE Championship rule set — especially the 4-ounce gloves and three-round format — provides crucial advantages that he is prepared to exploit.

He observed telling patterns from Lobo’s prior ONE appearances:

• his knockout victory over Kaonar Sor Jor Thongprajin at ONE Friday Fights 42,
• and the vulnerabilities revealed in his TKO loss to Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai at ONE Friday Fights 52.

These insights shaped a strategic shift. Rather than engaging heavily in clinching — historically one of Lobo’s strong suits — Worapon intends to rely on agility, sharp footwork, aggressive low kicks and punch-kick combinations to probe for openings.

A defining moment for Worapon’s future

This main event means far more than maintaining a winning streak. A statement win over Julio Lobo could put Worapon firmly in contention for the US$100,000 contract — a transformative milestone for his career and personal life.

With four straight victories already secured in 2025, every performance has incrementally pushed him closer to the global spotlight. One more explosive finish could be the breakthrough he has been working toward.