“Expect fireworks in this fight” - Aung La N Sang promises to be at his best against Japanese martial arts legend Yushin Okami

Fighter callouts typically end in athletes lashing out at each other, but Aung La N Sang is a different breed of fighter.

For Aung La, a callout from Japanese veteran Yushin Okami was a badge of honor. At a press conference promoting the upcoming ONE 163 event, 'The Burmese Python' Aung La reacted to the callout, expressing his excitement about the fight:

“The fans can expect fireworks in this fight. I know Yushin trains with my old opponent. So he’s gonna be very aware of what I’m capable of, and I’m training super seriously for this. Again, thank you Yushin for taking this fight. He called me out. And I’m going to do my best to prepare for this. I’m excited to put on a great show for you guys. Thank you, arigato Yushin and Japanese fans. Thank you Abema TV.”

Despite his pleasant demeanor, Aung La N Sang is no doubt feeling the pressure to get back in the win column with this fight. Dropping three of his last four, the Burmese hero lost both the middleweight and light heavyweight world titles to the undefeated Reinier de Ridder.

Prior to the rough patch, Aung La N Sang was one of the most successful fighters in the organization, capturing and defending both crowns simultaneously. His fights at home in Yangon, Myanmar, saw epic crowds attend thrilling performances by their hometown hero.

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Aung La N Sang has fixed holes in his game ahead of Yushin Okami fight

Training at Kill Cliff FC in Florida, Aung La N Sang will come into this matchup the younger fighter by four years. He’s been working with MMA greats from around the world to get back into the world title picture, which he hasn't given up on.

ONE Championship CEO Chatri Sityodtong recently commented on Aung La N Sang’s drive to right his wrongs:

“I think this fight is a very interesting fight for fans all over the world, but in particular, our Japanese fans. I think the big question is Aung La has had a few losses. He has messaged me often that he fixed all the holes in his game. And he wants to climb back to the top of the world again."

Top of the world for Aung La N Sang would be a trilogy fight with reigning de Ridder, who still rules both the middleweight and light heavyweight weight classes.

ONE 163 will go down on November 19, headlined by Hiroki Akimoto defending his lightweight kickboxing title against Petchtanong Banchamek. The event will kick off a partnership with Abema TV, a popular Japanese streaming service.

While the event takes place in Singapore, the card has a Japan vs. the rest of the world theme.