“He has a name” - Saygid Izagakhmaev relishes opportunity to fight MMA legend Shinya Aoki

No. 4 ranked lightweight contender Saygid Izagakhmaev has the chance to knock off a mixed martial arts legend at ONE 163. The rising Russian contender will meet Japanese superstar Shinya Aoki on November 19th as ONE Championship heads back to the familiar confines of Singapore Indoor Stadium.

In an interview with ONE, Saygid Izagakhmaev discussed the importance of getting a win, particularly against one of the most recognizable combat sports stars in the world.

“[This is a big fight because] he is a very well-known fighter. He has a name, he has his own following. He might be one of the most recognized fighters in the MMA world.”

When Saygid Izagakhmaev steps into the Circle at ONE 163, it will be for the third time in 2022. In his two prior contests, Izagakhmaev earned a submission victory over James Nakashima and followed it up with a unanimous decision against Zhang Lipeng at ONE 161 just six weeks ago.

On the other side of the coin, Shinya Aoki is looking to improve on his no. 5 ranking after absorbing a loss against Yoshihiro Akiyama in his latest MMA outing earlier this year. Prior to the loss, the legendary fighter scored three straight submission victories.

A win over Saygid Izagakhmaev could get him right back in the hunt for another world title run.

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Shinya Aoki appreciates being considered a legend of mixed martial arts ahead of his bout with Saygid Izagakhmaev

Shinya Aoki is one of the most well-respected mixed martial artists in the world. For nearly 20 years, ‘Tobikan Judan’ has delighted fans in the world of submission grappling, mixed martial arts, and even professional wrestling. Aoki is considered to be a true legend of the sport, even if the idea of being considered a legend leaves him feeling a bit embarrassed.

“I’m shy. For me, I just keep doing this sport because I love it. Not many fighters are called legends in Japan, maybe just me and Akiyama-san [Yoshihiro Akiyama]? I’m grateful to be considered a legend, but it’s a bit embarrassing.”

‘Tobikan Judan’ continued, saying:

“At this age, fighting and training with this passion, maybe I am a legend. But what I see as a legend is on another level like Antonio Inoki, Rickson [Gracie], Renzo [Gracie], [Chatri] Sityodtong, Saenchai. So if I’m in among them, I am still embarrassed."