Ahead of One Fight Night 23, Find Out How Chatri Sityodtong’s Message Helped Luke Lessei’s Fighting Career – ‘The Biggest Stage in Martial Arts’

One of many intriguing clashes on the schedule ONE Fight Night 23: Ok vs. Rasulov This weekend, a featherweight Muay Thai bout will pit #5 Luke “The Chef” Lessei against Frenchman Bampara Kouyate. All the action will take place at the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand this Friday, July 5, and will be broadcast live in primetime in the United States.

Since his ONE Championship debut, Luke Lessei has continued to impress fans with his performances. However, many don’t know how a message from Chatri Sityodtong changed Lessei’s journey a few years ago.

How did a message from Sityodtong shape Luke Lessei’s career?

A video uploaded by ONE Championship’s Instagram page features screenshots of a direct message from Chatri Sityodtong expressing interest in signing Lessei. The message, which came as a complete surprise to Lessei, reads: “ You’re talented, Luke. I had my team sign you this week! Welcome to the greatest martial arts stage in the world!“

Unable to contain his disbelief, Lessei replied: “Sir!!! Is that true?!? Be realistic! Sityodtong then reassured him with a final message: It’s your time to SHINE on the world’s greatest martial arts stage!”

Soon, 28-year-old Luke Lessei would kick off his ONE Championship career against number one ranked Jo Nattawut at ONE Fight Night 17 in December 2023. Although he lost, it was his head-to-head performance against Nattawut that truly captured the hearts of the crowd.

Two months later, he faced fellow American Eddie Abasolo at ONE Fight Night 19. This time, he picked up another unanimous decision victory. Now, Luke Lessei looks to replicate that success at ONE Fight Night 23 against another dangerous opponent, Kouyate.

Fans react to Chatri Sityodtong’s message to Lessei

Excited to see Luke Lessei’s debut story, fans were quick to show their excitement at seeing “The Chef” back in the ring once again at ONE Fight Night 23. One fan pumped up Luke Lessei by commenting, ““Let’s go @lukethechef_ let’s make all the skinny boys proud,” while another appreciated his fighting style saying: “One of the most entertaining fighters. Keep doing your thing, Chief.

Meanwhile, a fan asked ONE to organize a Muay Thai fight between Luke Lessei and Rodtang Jitmuangnon, expressing his feelings by commenting, “I’ve seen enough, give him Rodtang.“This was followed by another positive comment: “Amazing brother, you deserve everything. Finally, one fan appreciated how the reel gave a glimpse into Lessei’s journey so far, saying: “Congratulations to whoever made these.”

With all of these positive comments, it now remains to be seen if they will motivate Luke Lessei to continue his inspiring run against the imposing Bampara Kouyate in the upcoming ONE Fight Night 23: Ok vs. Rasulov. Stay tuned for further updates.