K-1 is preparing for its upcoming “Beyond” event in Yokohama, Japan on May 31st, which will feature three highly anticipated championship fights, showcasing top kickboxing talent. The promotion returns with significant title bouts scheduled for late spring.
In the Cruiserweight division, reigning champion and 2023 Openweight Grand Prix winner Liu Ce will defend his title against the undefeated Enfusion World Light Heavyweight champion Thian De Vries.
Liu has maintained a strong record in K-1, while De Vries boasts an impressive streak of 11 consecutive wins, all via knockout or technical knockout. This matchup is highly anticipated and promises an intense battle for the K-1 Cruiserweight championship.
The Super Welterweight title will be contested between current champion and Sanda specialist Ouyang Feng and the rising Enfusion star Darryl Verdonk.
Verdonk, a former Enfusion Lightweight world champion, has secured two consecutive victories since his quarterfinal elimination at last year`s K-1 World Max Tournament. Ouyang Feng, the defending champion, enters the fight on a five-fight winning streak from his appearances in Wu Lin Feng. Ouyang also competed in the K-1 World Max tournament but withdrew after winning his first-round bout due to injury.
Finally, the Super Lightweight title will see a rematch between Shu Inagaki and the current Thai champion, Yodkhunpon.
Yodkhunpon recently defended his Super Lightweight title with a notable TKO victory over Hayato Suzuki. He is also scheduled for another fight against Meng Gaofeng at Wu Lin Feng 553 on March 29th, staying active ahead of the K-1 rematch.
Shu Inagaki, considered a top prospect, aims to make necessary adjustments after losing a competitive previous encounter against Yodkhunpon, seeking redemption in this rematch.
Ellis Thorne