"I'm always ready" - Akbar Abdullaev unshaken by huge world title opportunity against Tang Kai

Fifth-ranked ONE featherweight MMA competitor Akbar Abdullaev remains level-headed despite being only a few hours away from potentially dethroning division kingpin Tang Kai at ONE Fight Night 27 on Friday, Jan. 10. The event will take place inside the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

Ahead of what could be a career-defining performance, Abdullaev spoke to the promotion and doubled down on his calm nature, saying:

"Even upon signing my first contract in the beginning I was ready to fight for the title. It doesn't mean whether it's now or then. I'm always ready."

The Kyrgyz striker has made a name for himself on the global stage of ONE after posting three straight knockout finishes to kickstart his tenure. His career record currently stands at an unblemished 11-0.

Despite his fearsome knockout power, Abdullaev cannot afford to get into a prolonged striking exchange with Tang because of the 155-pound MMA king's penchant for finishes.

In eight victories under the ONE banner, the Sunkin International Fight Club product has claimed five knockout finishes. His most recent victim was former undisputed featherweight MMA world champion Thanh Le at ONE 166: Qatar in March.

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Akbar Abdullaev hints at pursuing knockout of Tang Kai at ONE Fight Night 27

Akbar Abdullaev would love nothing more than to supplant Tang Kai as the new king of the featherweight MMA division by adding his name to his long list of knockout victims.

In a recent conversation with the promotion, Abdullaev declared:

"This time I will again try to avoid the judges' decision and win early. I think judges are not necessary in my fights, and I will try to finish sooner than expected."

ONE Fight Night 27 will air live and free to all Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.