ONE launches reality search for next MMA superstar in Asia

ONE Championship is in search of the next fighting superstar.

The premier mixed martial arts promotion in Asia launched a new documentary series that features Rich Franklin traveling from gym to gym looking for up and coming martial arts talents.

“One of our biggest missions is taking martial arts, Asia’s greatest cultural treasure, and placing it front and center for the entire world to witness,” said ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong.

“We are excited to travel across Asia, visiting the most iconic cities, to discover the next big superstar.”

Franklin, a multi-time middleweight champion when he was still fighting, will make stops in Bangkok, Manila, Seoul, Tokyo, and Beijing.

Now serving as ONE’s vice president, Franklin said he looks forward to the new practitioners that can elevate the sport of mixed martial arts to a new level.

“Throughout my time in ONE Championhsip, I have been a witness to some of the best martial arts talents,” said Franklin. “Stars today such as Angela Lee and Eduard Folayang came from the grassroots level of talent in Asia and the next martial arts superstar is just waiting to be discovered.”

Selected athletes will compete in trial exhibition bouts and all have a chance to earn a six-figure contract with ONE Championship.