Panpayak says he'll need 'three more fights' to prep for possible Superlek trilogy: "I will be ready"

Since making his long-awaited return to competition in October, it was obvious that Panypayak Jitmuangnon would have his sights set on one particular opponent.

'The Angel Warrior' is one of the very best Muay Thai competitors of his era but his career in ONE Championship has been defined by a specific name.

In two fights against the reigning two-division, two-sport world champion Superlek Kiatmoo9 under the promotional spotlight, Panpayak has come up short.

Despite suffering consecutive losses to 'The Kicking Machine', the 28-year-old is keen to run it back once again, having fought to a split decision in their latest encounter which took place at ONE 164 in 2022.

However, after spending nearly two years away from the ring, the elite flyweight knows that he can't just jump right back in at the deep end.

His return against Silviu Vitez in October showed that though he's still clearly a top level competitor, he might need some time to get up to speed.

Ahead of his next outing at ONE Friday Fights 92 on Dec. 20, Panpayak spoke about his plans to pick up a few more wins before standing face to face with his rival for the ninth time:

"My goal is to have three more fights. I still need to prove myself, but I will be ready to see Superlek and fight against him. But it all depends on ONE if this opportunity will come or not."

Watch the full press conference below:

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Panpayak needs to get past Egor Bikrev first

It's smart for Panpayak to not be in a rush to make it back to the very top of the division right now.

He got the win against Vitez but understandably didn't look at his very best so taking things slow is the best approach for him.

In his return to Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, he now faces Russia's Egor Bikrev, who recently debuted in the promotion at ONE Friday Fights 86 in November.