"I'm going for the knockout" - Upset-seeking Katsuki Kitano looking to make a name for himself at the expense of Liam Harrison

Japanese striker Katuski Kitano understands that Liam Harrison is a high-risk opponent. However, he also knows the massive rewards that await him if he pulls off the victory.

On June 7, Kitano will welcome the fit-again 'Hitman' back to the world's largest martial arts organization in a three-round bantamweight Muay Thai slugfest at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II on Prime Video inside Bangkok's Impact Arena.

The 28-year-old underdog certainly understands that most fans will be rooting for Harrison, given his distinguished resume in the striking arts. However, Kitano plans to spoil the Brit's return from injury and record perhaps the biggest win of his career to date.

In an interview with ONE, the Seishikai Gym standout said he's looking to get his hand raised in the most decisive way possible:

"I have to get the KO. That will really put my name out there. I'm going for the knockout."

Separating Liam Harrison from his consciousness will indeed be a tall task, but Kitano appears determined to prove he is a contender in the stacked 145-pound Muay Thai division.

The Japanese star showed a well-rounded arsenal in his unanimous decision win over Halil Kutukcu at ONE Friday Fights 38 last year.

Let's see if Kitano can take his career to new heights at ONE 167, which will air live in US primetime free for Prime Video subscribers in North America.

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Liam Harrison impressed with "solid" fighter Katsuki Kitano

An astute student of the game, Liam Harrison has already done his due diligence with his next opponent after nearly a two-year lay-off.

In an earlier interview on talkSPORT MMA, 'Hitman' praised the streaking Kitano's versatility and said he expects a proper scrap in less than two weeks:

"Well he's a solid Japanese fighter. I think he's won his last six or seven in a row. He's on a good run of form. He won his first fight under ONE Championship late last year. So yeah I'm looking forward to it."

See the full interview below: