News
Ben Coate
December 25, 2024
‘She Called Me Out’ – Anissa Meksen Thrilled To Defeat Former Training Partner Kana At ONE Friday Fights 92
On December 20 at ONE Friday Fights 92: Sitthichai vs. Shadow, kickboxing legend Anissa “C18” Meksen delivered an outstanding performance against one of the sport’s most formidable knockout artists.
In front of an Asian primetime audience, the French-Algerian veteran displayed rapid movement and powerful combination strikes to outpoint promotional newcomer Kana “Krusher Queen” Morimoto over three fast-paced rounds.
Meksen appeared to be in peak form, never relenting during the highly anticipated atomweight kickboxing matchup.
After her victory, “C18” spoke to onefc.com about the fight and was quick to acknowledge her opponent’s skills:
“It was a strong fight. She was so good, good hands, good movement.”
Kana was one of the most notable free-agent signings in recent memory when she joined ONE Championship earlier this year. A beloved star in Japan, the 32-year-old is a four-time K-1 Champion and is widely regarded among the world’s elite pound-for-pound kickboxers.
Known for her ruthless knockout ability, “Krusher Queen” came into the contest with a reputation, but Meksen had firsthand experience of her skills, having trained together back in 2021:
“I trained with her three years ago. I know her, so I wasn’t surprised [by anything].”
While she expected nothing unusual in the ring, Meksen expressed surprise – perhaps even offense – at Kana’s decision to call her out for this fight.
Now, following a clear-cut decision win that solidifies her standing as the superior striker, “C18” hopes to put any animosity behind them:
“I’m very happy to win tonight because, you know, it’s like a long war with her. She trained with me in 2021. She ate with me, and she fought after this, and then she called me out.
“So, I was a little bit shocked. And now I faced her tonight, and I won. So I’m happy to win.”
Meksen Mulls Retirement, Rematch With Buntan
At 36, Anissa Meksen is drawing near to the end of her illustrious career. While she has been a seven-time Kickboxing and Muay Thai World Champion, the coveted ONE Championship belt still eludes her.
When inquired about her future plans, Meksen indicated she might be open to competing again—but only if the right opportunity arises:
“I don’t know yet. You know, for me, I’m the [ONE] champion without a crown. So I’m waiting for something good, and if nothing good happens, I think I will retire.”
In her last fight before ONE Friday Fights 92, “C18” lost a closely contested decision to American talent Jackie Buntan in their battle for the inaugural ONE Women’s Strawweight Kickboxing World Title.
Reflecting on that five-round battle, Meksen feels she did enough to win. She’s open to delaying her retirement for a title rematch with Buntan:
“For me, I won that fight, for sure. If there is a rematch, I’m okay with this, but you know, for me, I’m the winner. I am without the belt tonight, but for me, I’m the champion.”
