Thai legend Sam-A Gaiyanghadao says he “discovered many weaknesses” in Zhang Peimian’s game ahead of ONE 169

Sam-A Gaiyanghadao didn't become a legend through his fists alone. He has earned a reputation for being one of the most calculated geniuses in combat sports, and he believes he's already identified the crucial weaknesses in Zhang Peimian's game.

Sam-A will take on the Chinese phenom in a strawweight kickboxing matchup at the stacked ONE 169 card on Nov. 8, U.S. primetime, at the historic Lumpinee Stadium.

In an interview with ONE Championship, Sam-A said that he's already studied Zhang's game and added that he's more than ready for their inter-generational showdown in Bangkok.

The former multi-time ONE world champion also stated that he's been in the fight game for a long time and that Zhang's aggressive yet technical style isn't particularly new to him.

Sam-A Gaiyanghadao said:

"I discovered many weaknesses in him, such as when he punches, he leaves windows open. My main advantage in this fight is probably my experience. I’ve fought many different styles of fighters, and he’s not new."

Sam-A is often considered one of the greatest Muay Thai fighters of all time, and the striking icon holds a mind-boggling 374-49-9 professional record.

The 41-year-old was also a multi-time Lumpinee Stadium world champion before arriving at ONE Championship in 2018. Sam-A then captured the inaugural ONE flyweight Muay Thai, strawweight Muay Thai and strawweight kickboxing world championships from 2018 to 2020.

ONE 169 is ONE Championship's final numbered event of the year and will be available live and free to all Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.

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Sam-A Gaiyanghadao plans one last charge at ONE Championship gold

The legacy of Sam-A Gaiyanghadao is practically set in stone, but the Thai legend is determined to write one final chapter in his illustrious career.

In the same interview with ONE Championship, Sam-A said he still has more than enough fuel in his gas tank for another shot at gold. He said:

"I want to get back to being a ONE World Champion before I retire. However, I think winning this fight is too early for me to have a shot at gold."

He added:

"Everyone is doubting how long an old dog like me can stay in this game, but winning this kickboxing match will boost my confidence and prove that I can still fight."