Liam Harrison has proven once again why he is one of the sport’s most feared strikers.
In a battle of low kicks, Harrison claimed the prestigious WBC Muay Thai Diamond Belt after defeating Spain’s Isaac Araya, with the victory cementing his status as one of the greatest to ever do it.
Fighting in front of a passionate home crowd at the sold out Hitman Fight League event, Harrison delivered a classic performance worthy of his legacy. However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Araya posed a significant threat early on with his relentless inside low kicks. At multiple points taking Harrison’s leg from beneath him with perfectly timed shots.
The fight saw controversy in round two when a knockdown was called in Harrison’s favour, leaving Araya visibly frustrated. Despite his protests, the referee’s count stood, shifting the momentum in Harrison’s favour.
By round three, Harrison’s signature aggression began to take its toll. He relentlessly attacked Araya’s lead leg with repeated low kicks, eventually rendering him unable to stand. At 2 minutes and 15 seconds into the third round, the referee waved off the contest, awarding Harrison the TKO victory and adding yet another accolade to his legendary career.
After the bout, the 38-year-old expressed his gratitude to the fans and reflected on the journey that led to this moment. “You helped a kid from a council estate in Leeds live an incredible life and you helped him live his dream, I love you all, thank you.”
He went on to say “The Diamond belt, this is not testament to the last eight weeks, it’s not testament to what just happened in that ring. This is testament to 92 professional wins, 52 knockouts, 8 world titles and fighting the best of the best month in month out.” … “I’m very very proud of this.”
The WBC Diamond Belt is one of the most prestigious accolades in Muay Thai, awarded only to the sport’s elite.
What’s Next for Liam Harrison?
Harrison has previously hinted at a return to ONE Championship in the summer, providing that he stays injury-free. “Well I was supposed to be retired from ONE Championship... but they recently made me an offer I couldn't really refuse so I'm gonna have one more with them." he shared on X. “We’ll go one fight at a time and decide how I feel.”
Liam is also scheduled to be in the United States on a seminar tour from the end of March to the end of May.
