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Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong stressed the importance of winning the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix Championship later this year. Last Friday represented Sitthichai's seventh promotional kickboxing bout, as he faced Masaaki Noiri at ONE 167.
At 32 years old, the Thai superstar showcased one of the best performances of his fighting career, defeating Noiri by unanimous decision in a three-round battle inside the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.
Sitthichai was undoubtedly satisfied with his impressive win, but he's also focused on a massive upcoming opportunity.
Although it's unconfirmed by ONE, the former eight-time kickboxing, and Muay Thai world champion is expected to compete in the third edition of the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix Championship.
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During a ONE167 post-fight interview with Sportskeeda, the Thai warrior had this to say about what it would mean to him to come out victorious in the eight-man tournament:
"Well, if I am selected as one of the eight, that would be amazing already. But if I win the title, it'll be one of my dreams. I believe it'll be one of my highest achievement of my career of all time."
The replay of ONE 167 can be seen for free by North American and Canadian viewers with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription.
Watch the entire interview with Sportskeeda MMA below:
Who else is expected to be in the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix besides Sitthichai?
Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong's win against Masaaki Noiri at ONE 167 should solidify his spot in the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix Championship.
Meanwhile, ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong also confirmed the tournament will feature the division's world champion, Chingiz Allazov, and interim king, Superbon.
As previously mentioned, Sityodtong hasn't confirmed who else is competing in the tournament. That said, several other potential fighters worthy of the opportunity are Noiri, Marat Grigorian, Giorgio Petrosyan, and ONE featherweight Muay Thai world champion Tawanchai.
It'll be intriguing to see how many legendary fights will get their hands full at the Grand Prix, which is scheduled to start later this year.
