Kritsada Kongsrichai Has Win at One Championship ‘Iron Will’ Overturned Due to Illegal Suplex

Here is the end of the strawweight bout between Kritsada Kongsrichai and Robin Catalan. The Thai's knockout win was overturned to a disqualification loss. pic.twitter.com/R1sbuwSXaO

— 'El Chapo' Nissi Icasiano (@Nissi_Icasiano) March 25, 2018

What appeared to be a highlight-reel victory for Kritsada Kongsrichai at One Championship “Iron Will” will now go down as a disqualification.

Kongsrichai initially earned a first-round technical knockout victory over Robin Catalan on Saturday at Impact Arena in Bangkok Thailand, as he suplexed his opponent and finished him off with punches at the 1:40 mark.

However, One Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong issued a statement via Facebook that the suplex was illegal, and as a result, Catalan would get the victory in the strawweight bout via disqualification.

“Unfortunately, I have to be the bearer of bad news. While I am a big fan of Kritsada Kongsrichai and his incredible athleticism, the fight against Robin Catalan has now been ruled a DQ,” Sityodtong wrote. “After careful video review of the fight under multiple angles, it has been deemed that an illegal suplex was utilized. At ONE Championship, all variations of suplexes are illegal and any attempt or intent results in an automatic disqualification. Robin Catalan will now be awarded the victory, and his win bonus. It will also be ruled a loss via DQ for Kritsada Kongsrichai and his official fight record. As a fellow lifelong martial artist, I fully understand that no athlete wants to win or lose under the cloud of a DQ. However, as the leader of One Championship, I am here to ensure that safety is the No. 1 priority at all times for all of our athletes.”

As a result of the ruling, Kongsrichai will fall to 6-4 in his professional career, while Catalan improves to 7-3.