Jennifer Simons, Suriname’s 11th President and leader of the National Democratic Party, took to social media to celebrate Eersel’s spectacular demolition of George “G-Unit” Jarvis at ONE Fight Night 34. But her words carried weight far beyond typical congratulations from a political figure.
“A little late, but certainly not forgotten. Congrats on the championship, Regian ‘The Immortal’ Eersel. Big ups to you!” Simons wrote.
“A fighter with an unimaginable passion, perseverance, and Suriname pride. Lightweight Muay Thai world champion at ONE Championship. The multiple-time champion always puts Suriname on the map with his achievements.”
For Eersel, who left Suriname at just 4 years old when his family sought better opportunities in Amsterdam, the acknowledgment represents a full-circle moment in his remarkable journey from immigrant child to global martial arts icon. The 32-year-old has consistently carried the flag of his birthplace throughout his career, becoming one of Suriname’s most celebrated athletes on the international stage.
The tribute comes on the heels of Eersel’s devastating performance against Jarvis, where he showcased exactly the qualities Simons praised. The lightweight Muay Thai ruler needed just 84 seconds to dismantle the British challenger, dropping him twice before ending the contest with a thunderous right hand at the 1:24 mark of the opening round.
With his third successful ONE lightweight Muay Thai world title defense, Eersel has never been defeated in Muay Thai competition under the ONE Championship banner. But this latest victory brought him something more valuable than another win on his record – validation from the nation that shaped his identity but that he barely remembers calling home.
As congratulations poured in from fans across the globe, Eersel took time to acknowledge the energy that drives him forward, the same passion President Simons recognized in her tribute.
“Everyone, thank you for your support. I really feel the energy, also the messages I get online. Keep doing it, keep supporting me, it only motivates me, and much love to you all,” Eersel responded. “Keep following me and keep supporting me because I’m here to entertain you guys and create beautiful fights.”
