ONE three-weight world champion Anatoly Malykhin has got some thoughts on one of the biggest contests of the year that is coming up in just a few months' time.
Two of the biggest dates on the calendar are penciled in for ONE Championship's return to the United States.
Before they make their debut in Atlanta in November, it's time for another trip back to Denver, this time at the Ball Arena. In one of the biggest and best striking bouts of the year, ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion Jonathan Haggerty will be defending his title against Superlek Kiatmoo9.
The flyweight kickboxing champion will be moving up a weight class following some huge wins and, as a result, it's incredibly difficult to separate the two men.
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Malykhin, who has plenty of experience in championship fights, spoke about the fight in a recent interview with ONE Championship.
He believes that a clash of two of the best in the world will come down to mentality rather than skill:
"Haggerty is on a roll right now, but Superlek has been performing beautifully. I think the winner will be the one who is mentally better prepared because both of them have proven their skills in the ring."
Anatoly Malykhin will look to put on his own show in the US
Striking fans all over the world are eagerly anticipating Haggerty vs. Superlek on September 6, but Anatoly Malykhin has his own contest to focus on.
He will take top billing at the State Farm Arena two months after the Denver card when he competes in the main event of ONE 169 in Atlanta.
With his heavyweight title on the line, his clash with Oumar 'Reug Reug' Kane is sure to be fireworks for as long as it lasts.
Strap yourselves in because the big fights are just getting started.
Tickets for ONE 168: Denver and ONE 169: Atlanta are available at Ticketmaster.