#2. Danny Kingad ready to turn the corner with another winning run
‘The King’ Danny Kingad has improved exponentially on all fronts since his loss to Demetrious Johnson in the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix Championship Final in October 2019. However, that loss taught Danny Kingad some crucial lessons that will only help him in his career moving forward. More importantly, it has also lit a fire under him.
The young Team Lakay star is fully capable of mounting another impressive winning run, starting with a victory over Akhmetov. And he will stop at nothing to beat a man whom he has wanted to fight for years.
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Danny Kingad called Akhmetov out more than two years ago, but the ill-fated showdown has met many stumbling blocks. Thankfully for fans, it’s finally happening, and we will get to see how this matchup plays out.
If Danny Kingad can beat Akhmetov, a rematch with Moraes is most likely the next step. He is one of the most talented flyweights in the world, and he now has a chance to prove that once again.
#1. A ‘not-so classic’ battle between a grappler and a striker
Take into consideration the full spectrum of Danny Kingad and Kairat Akhmetov’s skill sets, you will see that their overall abilities provide fans with more than the average duel between a striker and a grappler.
Yes, they do have their individual strengths, but both men know how to throw hands, and have finely-tuned striking skills to complement their distinct advantages over one another. Simply put, Akhmetov can strike with Kingad, a wushu champion, and Kingad can battle on the mat with Akhmetov, who is a decorated wrestler.
Furthermore, Danny Kingad’s wushu skills have worn down several opponents, while Akhmetov’s IQ on the canvas makes him a tough foe to break down. Judging by their last five outings, both men are equally comfortable fighting within enemy territory.
This is truly a unique matchup between two of the ONE Championship’s top flyweights. Who will have their hand raised?