Chihiro Sawada will test her winning momentum against undefeated Natalie Salcedo in a women's atomweight MMA bout on Friday, January 23, at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok at ONE Fight Night 39.
The Japanese former Shooto titleholder brings explosive wrestling skills and recent form into the matchup after rebounding from her first career loss. Sawada has compiled a 10-1 record with five promotional victories since joining ONE Championship in February 2023, demonstrating well-rounded skills throughout her run.
The 28-year-old announced her arrival by submitting Sanaz Fayazmanesh via Americana shoulder lock in her promotional debut before earning unanimous decision victories over Jihin Radzuan and Noelle Grandjean. Sawada built an eight-fight winning streak before experiencing her first career setback, but quickly responded with consecutive victories.
Her recent performances include a submission of Macarena Aragon in July followed by a decisive victory over compatriot Itsuki Hirata last month. The Tokyo native's momentum positions her as a potential future challenger for Denice Zamboanga's ONE Women's Atomweight MMA World Championship if she can hand Salcedo her first professional defeat.
Salcedo represents one of the division's most intriguing prospects after maintaining an undefeated record through amateur and professional competition. The 33-year-old Colorado-based fighter has compiled a perfect 4-0 professional slate while showcasing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt credentials combined with Muay Thai striking.
Her promotional debut at ONE Fight Night 35 in September immediately established her credentials when she forced Aragon to tap in the first round. The performance demonstrated the submission threat she presents despite limited professional experience, quickly marking her as a legitimate contender in the talent-rich atomweight division.
The stylistic matchup features Sawada's wrestling pedigree and recent experience against Salcedo's unbeaten record and submission skills. Both fighters seek to separate themselves from the competitive atomweight field with statement victories that could propel them toward title contention.
Sawada aims to extend her winning streak and prove her recent setback represents only a temporary obstacle in her championship pursuit. Her five promotional victories have demonstrated consistent improvement while establishing her as a dangerous opponent capable of finishing fights through multiple methods.
Salcedo needs a signature victory over ranked opposition to validate her perfect record and prove her regional success translates against elite ONE Championship competition. Defeating an experienced competitor like Sawada would transform the American into a legitimate top contender while maintaining her unblemished professional slate.
