ONE: Inside the Matrix — Christian Lee Serves Up First Defeat for Iuri Lapicus

Christian Lee and Iuri Lapicus, ONE Championship: Inside the Matrix
Christian Lee and Iuri Lapicus, Inside the Matrix Credit: ONE Championship

The co-main event at ONE Championship’s stacked Inside the Matrix card on Friday featured one of the promotion’s young stars, Christian Lee, putting his lightweight title on the line against the undefeated Iuri Lapicus.

It was a bout that was over almost as quickly as it started. And it started with Lee coming out of his corner like a bat out of hell.

Lee stormed out of the gate, going right at the challenger in a fashion normally reserved for up-and-comers looking to make a statement. Not reigning champions looking to defend their title. His fast start may have cost him, however, as Lapicus wound up on top after a scramble. Lapicus worked from the guard, but he didn’t get to stay there long. The champion, was able to transition to the top. While he wound up having to fend off a heel hook, Lee was able to roll free. And when he did, Lee managed to begin unloading with punches to the head, while Lapicus was still on his knees with nowhere to escape. It wasn’t long before the ref waved it off. Christian Lee had handed Lapicus his first career loss.

That was a statement win from the young champ. One that felt like months of pent-up aggression finally being released. With sister Angela Lee taking time off for her first pregnancy, the family legacy appears to be in good hands.

Official Result: Christian Lee def. Iuri Lapicus by TKO, Round 1, 2:19