ONE featherweight MMA contender Shamil Gasanov of Russia is ready to go the distance against one of the most feared knockout artists in the promotion.
‘The Cobra’ challenges reigning ONE featherweight MMA world champion Tang Kai in the finale of ONE Fight Night 43 on May 15 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
The Dagestani wrestling specialist brings his suffocating grappling arsenal against the Chinese superstar known for his destructive power.
It’s an intriguing clash of contrasting styles, but Gasanov is confident he will leave ‘The Mecca of Muay Thai’ with his hand raised and 26 pounds of gold around his waist.
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The challenger is even willing to go the full 25 minutes to realize his lifelong dream.
“Of course, we know his strengths, and we’ve prepared well in that area,” he told ONE Championship in his pre-event interview.
“I won’t let him hit me in the legs. It’s a great experience to fight against such strikers and win. These fights prepare you for the long haul, and I think we’re ready for all five rounds of war in the ring.”
Shamil Gasanov enters with plenty of momentum after avenging the lone setback of his career against Garry Tonon last August.
Shamil Gasanov says Tang Kai will be in for a long night
Shamil Gasanov is known for imposing a punishing pace that not many can survive.
‘The Cobra’ insists that the world will see Tang Kai break at ONE Fight Night 43.
The challenger said in his pre-fight interview with the promotion:
“I will try to apply any painful hold if I have the opportunity in a fight. I really like choke holds. I will try to break him in every round, but I know this will be a tough fight for both of us, and a lot will be decided in the championship rounds.”
ONE Fight Night 43 airs live in U.S. primetime and is free for Prime Video subscribers in North America.
Edited by Aziel Karthak
