Zhang Peimian unfazed by veteran Sam-A Gaiyanghadao's legendary pedigree: "It's just a fight"

At just 21 years old, Zhang Peimian is no stranger to high stakes and bright lights in ONE Championship.

The exciting rising contender put together back-to-back wins during his start in the promotion which quickly elevated him into a title fight.

Peimian may have come up short against Jonathan Di Bella in their strawweight kickboxing world championship clash at ONE 162 but it was still invaluable experience for him at such a young age.

It's moments and fights like that which allow him to be focused on the task at hand heading into his return at ONE 169.

On Nov. 8 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, Zhang Peimian is back to face one of the most legendary competitors in all of striking.

Sam-A Gaiyanghadao is a living legend of the game but he isn't just in this position because of his prestige alone.

The 41-year-old Thai icon is coming off of one of his best performances in years when he stopped Akram Hamidi in the first round at ONE Friday Fights 81.

Despite the pedigree that he brings to the table, Peimian told ONE Championship in a recent interview that he isn't intimidated by his opponent:

"Many people have asked me the same question. My answer is that I'm never afraid of the fight, and it's just a fight."

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Zhang Peimian could secure the biggest win of his career

In six fights with the promotion, Zhang Peimian has already secured some big victories.

His first two wins in the promotion and his latest victory over Aliff Sor Dechapan at ONE Friday Fights 58 in particular jump off the page.

That being said, adding a veteran like Sam-A to his resume would be his most impressive victory to date even if the Thai legend is near the end of his career.

This could finally be the opportunity that Peimian needs to earn a second shot at ONE Championship gold.

ONE 169 will be available to active Amazon Prime Video subscribers in North America live in U.S. primetime today, Nov. 8.