At ONE 168: Denver, the stakes couldn’t be higher as former ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion John ‘Hands of Stone’ Lineker steps into entirely new territory—and fans are buzzing with anticipation. Known for his relentless power and knockout ability, Lineker has made a name for himself in MMA, but this Friday, September 6, he’s diving into the world of Muay Thai, ready to prove his mettle once again.

Live from Denver’s Ball Arena, the Brazilian brawler will make his Muay Thai debut against none other than the dynamic and dangerous Asa ‘The American Ninja’ Ten Pow. This isn’t just any fight—it’s a collision of two explosive styles. Lineker, with his crushing fists, faces a seasoned striker in Ten Pow, whose lightning-fast kicks and technical precision make him a formidable opponent. The world will be watching as Lineker leaves behind the comfort of MMA to test himself in the art of eight limbs, where every punch, kick, knee, and elbow counts.

For fight fans, this isn’t just a match—it’s a must-see spectacle, a clash between raw power and refined technique. Will Lineker’s fists of stone translate to Muay Thai, or will Ten Pow’s sharp, calculated strikes send the Brazilian crashing down? One thing’s for sure: the stage is set, and come Friday night, the Ball Arena will be electric.

John Lineker praises upcoming ONE 168 opponent Asa Ten Pow

While Lineker has already done plenty to establish himself as one of MMA’s all-time great knockout artists and perhaps the hardest pound-for-pound puncher the sport has ever seen, fans are naturally curious about how his skill set will translate to ONE’s small-gloved Muay Thai.

‘Hands of Stone’ is quick to give respect to his opponent, who has no shortage of high-level Muay Thai experience.

“Asa Ten Pow is a striking guy, a specialist in this area, and who is already used to fighting under the rules of Muay Thai. He is a very tough and technical athlete. I had the opportunity to meet him a few times backstage at ONE events, and he is a really nice guy. I am sure we will have an excellent fight,” Lineker said.

Indeed, Ten Pow boasts titles in boxing, kickboxing, and Muay Thai. What’s more, he’ll come into this contest on a two-fight knockout streak, most recently scoring a highlight-reel stoppage of Thai star Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon at ONE Fight Night 14. And Lineker has no illusions about the kind of threat ‘The American Ninja’ poses.

Lineker on what makes Ten Pow such a dangerous opponent

Lineker has carefully studied his foe and is prepared for what the American will bring to the Circle on September 6. Particularly impressive to the Brazilian champ has been Ten Pow’s quickness and technical mastery over striking, which he feels will lead to a striking masterclass between them.

“From what I’ve seen, he’s a fast guy who moves around a lot. He uses kicks and front attacks very well. He also works well with straight punches and uses his elbows a lot. He’s a tough, technical and versatile guy,” he added.

“It’s going to be a very tough fight! It’s going to be a great show because it’s going to be all about striking. I’m going to do everything I can to neutralize his strengths and get my game right,” Lineker declared confidently. Who do you think will win their MMA bantamweight bout? Let us know in the comments section below.