Asia's biggest mixed martial arts (MMA) promotions ONE Championship has received a major financial investment that could lead to its further growth and expansion plans in China.

According to a press release, the Singapore-based MMA promotion "has entered into definitive agreements with a consortium led by Heliconia Capital Management for an investment into the company."

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Heliconia is a subsidiary of the investment company owned by a Government of Singapore, Temasek Holdings Private Limited, that focuses on growth-oriented Singaporean companies. Temasek as a whole manages a portfolio of nearly $180 billion.

According to MMA Fighting, officials at ONE Championship have confirmed that the said investment is in eight figures. The well-known MMA promotions is expected to open an office in Shanghai early this month.

The partnership is expected to help One Championship continue its expansion and lead to more MMA events in the continent of Asia, particularly in China. ONE Championship has held six events in China. The latest was the "Dynasty of Champions" that was held in Hefei Olympic Sports Center early this month. The event featured the top MMA fighters Eric "The Natural" Kelly of the Philippines and the former ONE featherweight world titlist Narantungalag Jadambaa of Mongolia in the main event.

"I believe this partnership marks the beginning of a long and fruitful journey to bring One Championship to the rest of the world," ONE Championship CEO Victor Cui said. "Heliconia is a well-respected investment firm with the expertise, resources and contacts across Asia. For us, this investment by Heliconia represents a strong vote of confidence and a belief in the value that ONE Championship can bring. This partnership will unlock additional markets and opportunities for ONE Championship."

ONE Championship has held over 40 events to date in Manila, Jakarta, Manila, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Phnom Penh, Dubai, Taipei, Phnom Penh, Yangon, Beijing, Changsha, Guangzhou, Yangon, and Bangkok as well as Singapore.

TagsMMA, one championship, Helconia capital management, Temasek Holdings Pte, "dynasty of champions"