"I want to show the world the strength of Japanese fighters" - Katsuki Kitano game to take on "big name" Liam Harrison

Katsuki Kitano is looking to secure a big upset in his second fight under the ONE Championship banner at ONE 167.

The promotion has put together a stacked card on June 7 and amongst the biggest fights on the card is the long awaited return of Liam Harrison.

The British striking legend has been out of action ever since he suffered a devastating knee injury during his ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world championship clash with Nong-O in August 2022.

It has been a long road to recovery for 'Hitman' but now the return is in his sights for June 7.

Looking to spoil his comeback is Kitano who draws the biggest fight of his career to date as the welcoming party for the veteran.

Due to Harrison's big return, Katsuki Kitano knows that this fight is sure to draw a lot of attention and with that in mind, he hopes to make a statement:

"He's a big name, so it really motivates me. Also, I want to show the world the strength of Japanese fighters."

Katsuki Kitano knows what this fight could do for him

A lot of striking fans will be tuning into ONE 167 without being overly familiar with Katsuki Kitano and the threat that he brings to the table.

This means he has a massive opportunity to pick up the biggest win on his record on the biggest platform he has had to date.

Beating Liam Harrison on his long awaited return to competition could be huge for Kitano and his momentum in the promotion.

That being said, this will be no easy task even after the time that Harrison was forced to spend away from competition due to his injury.

'The Hitman' has been working hard and staying patient to ensure that once he does step foot back inside the Circle, he's ready for one last memorable run.

ONE 167 will air live from the Impact Arena in Bangkok on June 7.