Superlek Kiatmoo9 is heading into his next contest full of confidence despite the short preparation period.
“The Kicking Machine” steps into the main event of ONE Fight Night 12 on Prime Video this Friday, July 14, opposite Tagir Khalilov, and their flyweight Muay Thai battle promises to be something special.
The star-studded event will take place inside the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, and will be broadcast live and for free on Prime Video for subscribers in North America.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Superlek’s Confidence soars despite short preparation period
The matchup comes just three weeks after the reigning ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion stopped teenage striking sensation Nabil Anane in the first round of their Muay Thai bout at ONE Friday Fights 22.
With minimal damage sustained during that performance, Superlek welcomed the opportunity to compete in a quick turnaround tussle with Khalilov.
View this post on Instagram
The Thai superstar is well-aware of what his opponent can do. After all, he watched the Russian striker take out two of his compatriots in the first round in his last two appearances in ONE.
Ahead of his upcoming battle, Superlek says he’s determined to end that streak.
Read more: Superlek Kiatmoo9 Reveals 2 Fighters He Wants to Beat Before Rodtang Jitmuangnon Bout
“He knocked out both opponents with his fists. That’s his strength. But I love to fight with punchers. Plus, I think he has the determination to kill Thai fighters. But I don’t want to be his third victim. Absolutely not. Let’s see who makes a mistake first in this fight,” he said.
Thai Superstar teases game plan for Khalilov clash
This exciting flyweight pairing was expected to go down last year, but the match fell through. Superlek kept his game plan for Khalilv in his back pocket, though, and he teases that there might be an ace up his sleeve this Friday.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Knowing how tough his opponent is, the division’s #1-ranked contender isn’t promising a finish outright, but he says he will definitely go hunting for one.
“I have prepared a lot. I can see many holes in him. I have already prepared something for him. I know he is good with his punches, so I prepared something to deal with his hand. We will all see that in the ring. I still believe in myself. I believe in my hard work. Let’s see if it works there in the ring,” Superlek said.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
“It depends on how the game will be going. To be honest, I want to finish him. But I know he is strong and persistent. But I really want to know if he can stand on his feet if he happens to take a ‘present’ I have prepared for him. If I get a clean shot at his vital point, we are not sure if he would survive the fight. I already fought with many heavy hitters. So, I think I can pass through him in this fight, too.”