Sanzhar Zakirov says "beautiful performance" was needed to beat Tatsumitsu Wada: "It could have gone differently" 

Sanzhar Zakirov stayed flawless in his career at last week's ONE Fight Night 27 inside the Lumpinee Stadium. But he was made to work extra hard to ensure he got his hand raised in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Uzbekistan talent welcomed ONE veteran Tatsumitsu Wada to the strawweight division, who made a name for himself against the very best of the best in the flyweight bracket.

As he had expected, the Japanese talent was ready for a full-on war. The 36-year-old, a DEEP flyweight champion, didn't back down from any exchange and even attempted to throw the 21-year-old Uzbek warrior on the backfoot.

Still, Zakirov never backed down. Despite being yellow-carded after repeatedly throwing low blows at Wada, his assortment of weapons in all facets of the game helped him power through with a deserving unanimous decision.

Speaking to the Bangkok Post shortly after his win, Sanzhar Zakirov revealed that he pushed himself to the limit to make sure he enjoyed a victorious night out:

"I think if I wasn't after putting on a beautiful performance, it could have gone differently. I still think I would have won all three rounds, but the result may have been more professional."

The Khaturaev Team athlete nudged his record to 13-0 with the victory, which was his fourth triumph under the ONE spotlight.

Watch the full interview here:

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Sanzhar Zakirov wants Reece McLaren next in ONE Championship

In the same interview with Bangkok Post's Nick Atkin, the Uzbek upstart did not waste time declaring who he wants to face off against next inside the ONE Circle.

He continued:

"Next up, we're hoping to fight Reece McLaren. He fought against an old guy. We have the right fit right here. So next up, it's gonna be you. Good luck!"

North American fans with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription can watch the entire ONE Fight Night 27 card via replay.