5 reasons why Danny Kingad vs. Kairat Akhmetov is must-watch TV

#4. Danny Kingad and Kairat Akhmetov both have Adriano Moraes in their sights

Danny Kingad, the current No.2-ranked flyweight athlete, has longed for a rematch with Adriano Moraes and another shot at the ONE flyweight world title for the longest time. Having fallen just short of victory against Demetrious Johnson in the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix back in October 2019, Danny Kingad is slowly working his way back up the ladder.

And with Demetrious Johnson, the division’s No. 1-ranked contender, busy preparing for his special rules fight against Rodtang at ONE: X, Danny Kingad has the perfect chance to make a statement against Akhmetov and book a title fight for himself.

Danny Kingad challenged Moraes for the title in 2017, losing via submission. He’s been wanting to get the Brazilian back in the ONE Circle ever since.

Of course, it’s the same case for Akhmetov, who also has unfinished business with Moraes. Akhmetov defeated the Brazilian in 2015 to capture the title, but then lost in a rematch two years later. A rubber match is in order, but only if Akhmetov can get past Danny Kingad.

Akhmetov would love to send out a strong reminder to the division while setting himself up for a trilogy fight against Moraes.

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#3. Kairat Akhmetov is building momentum, looking for fourth straight win

Akhmetov’s latest setback came at the hands of Geje Eustaquio, also a former flyweight champion, and Danny Kingad’s Team Lakay teammate. Since then, ‘The Kazakh’ has won three straight, and is looking to extend that streak to four when he takes on Danny Kingad on December 17.

Akhmetov is one of the most talented flyweight fighters in the division, and his vaunted wrestling is incredibly overbearing. Many of his opponents find it difficult to mount any sort of offense, as Akhmetov controls the action and pace of a fight for long durations.

Danny Kingad has expressed his willingness to test his strength against Akhmetov’s wrestling, but that may be ill-advised. The warrior from Kazakhstan is one of the most dominant ground fighters in ONE Championship.