Superlek says taking on Kongthoranee “was his best interest to stay active” before Denver super fight against Jonathan Haggerty

Superlek Kiatmoo9 isn't your run-of-the-mill fighter.

While some fighters are content with training their behinds off in the gym, the reigning ONE flyweight kickboxing world champion decided to square off against the dangerous Kongthoranee Sor Sommai.

The all-Thai matchup, which has all the makings of an instant classic, goes down this Friday at ONE Friday Fights 68 at the historic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.

In an interview with ONE Championship, Superlek said he didn't want to sit idly by and decided to face Kongthoranee a few months before his super fight against ONE bantamweight Muay Thai and kickboxing world champion Jonathan Haggerty.

Superlek said:

"I agreed to fight Kongthoranee because it was in my best interest to stay active before fighting Haggerty."

Superlek will challenge Haggerty for the ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world championship at ONE 168: Denver on September 6 at Ball Arena in Colorado.

'The Kicking Machine' will run it back with the two-sport king nearly six years after they fought at Yokkao.

Superlek secured the win over Haggerty in their 2018 duel after causing a massive cut on the British superstar's face leading to a doctor stoppage win.

Before he laces up the gloves for Denver, Superlek must face the stiff challenge that Kongthoranee will pose in Bangkok.

A win for Superlek will chalk up his 10th straight win and push his momentum to greater heights ahead of ONE 168: Denver.

ONE Friday Fights 68 is available live on pay-per-view at watch.onefc.com. Tickets for ONE 168: Denver are available at Ticketmaster.

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Superlek not underestimating Kongthoranee ahead of Bangkok showdown

While some observers may discount Kongthoranee's challenge against Superlek, the man himself isn't having any of that.

Superlek said in the pre-fight press conference that Kongthoranee isn't someone to be trifled with.

"I think for someone like Kongthoranee to rise and get the contract, he is definitely not an athlete who can be underestimated."

Kongthoranee is a two-time Rajadamnern Stadium world champion and is on a seven-fight winning streak under the ONE Championship banner.