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Sam-A Gaiyanghadao may have shifted into gear slightly later than expected against 'Fighting Rooster' Zhang Peimian. But per the former two-sport, two-division ONE world champion, it was all part of his plan.
The Thai striking legend duked it out alongside the Chinese kickboxing talent for three action-packed rounds inside the Lumpinee Stadium as part of ONE 169 on Friday, Nov. 8.
'Fighting Rooster' went all-out from the sound of the bell to prevent his opposite number from hitting his trademark gears. Zhang threw punches from different directions and followed up with his usual kicking game to keep the momentum going on his end.
Though Sam-A was forced to throw while working in reverse gear, the 41-year-old's precision, timing, and IQ allowed him to punish Zhang on each occasion the Chinese star overcommitted or missed with his strikes.
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Looking back at his clear-cut unanimous decision victory over the Shengli Fight Club affiliate, Sam-A had this to say to Mitch Chilson on why he toned down his usual style in the early goings of the match:
"My plan coming up here tonight was to feel out something that I can exploit in half of the first round. Then I started to go in, using my hands and using my knees."
With his victory inside the Mecca of Muay Thai last Friday, the former ONE world champion pushed his slate to 375-49.
It was also his second consecutive win on the global stage this year after he shut down Akram Hamidi with a left cross at ONE Friday Fights 81 this past September.
A trilogy vs Prajanchai could be in the offing for Sam-A
While nothing is confirmed, the Evolve MMA legend is widely tipped to have another go at reigning ONE strawweight Muay Thai and kickboxing world champion Prajanchai PK Saenchai next.
Sam-A has squared off with the PK Saenchai man twice, suffering a majority decision defeat and a knockout loss.
However, based on how he has been able to turn back the clock with two stunning outings this year, the 41-year-old legend should have it in him to flip the script and regain his throne against Prajanchai if the ONE matchmakers set them up for what would undoubtedly be a barnburner.
