Superlek Kiatmoo9 has something special in store for his ONE Fight Night 12 opponent this weekend.
“The Kicking Machine” will face surging Russian Tagir Khalilov in a flyweight muay Thai contest in the main event of the star-studded spectacle at the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, as he looks to continue his mission to add muay Thai gold to his ONE flyweight kickboxing world title.
Superlek is excited to showcase his skills to a global audience via Amazon Prime Video () again, and he believes competing in the Mecca of muay Thai will give him extra fuel to put on another spectacular performance in the headliner, which streams live in North American primetime on Friday night.
“Honestly, I’m overjoyed, and I’m glad I can fight in Lumpinee Boxing Stadium once again,” Superlek said. “Moreover, I am honored to be part of a ONE Fight Night that will be broadcast around the world during U.S. primetime. That motivates me to put on a great performance. I am grateful to boss Chatri Sityodtong for having me fight at ONE Fight Night 12 and also have me in the main event.”
Khalilov is a dangerous proposition in his current form. The Russian striker has rebounded from losses in his first two fights under the ONE banner to record two straight first-round knockouts against Thai stars Chorfah Tor Sangtiennoi and Black Panther, respectively.
But Superlek has seen it all before across his staggering 134 professional victories. And, though he refused to give details, the 27-year-old promised he has a surprise planned for “Samingpri” when they meet this Friday.
“To be honest, I want to finish him, but I know he is strong and persistent,” Superlek said. “I really want to know if he can stand on his feet if he happens to take a present I have prepared for him.
“If I get a clean shot at his vital point, we are not sure if he will survive the fight. I already fought with many heavy hitters, so I think I can pass through him in this fight, too.”
The Kiatmoo9 Gym standout’s confidence is well-placed. After all, he has reeled off six straight wins in the last 13 months, including three victories this year. His most recent win came just three weeks ago when he overcame a significant height and reach advantage against Nabil Anane to finish the young phenom in the first round of their bout at ONE Friday Fights 22.
Superlek’s exploits have already placed him firmly in the conversation for ONE’s 2023 “Fighter of the Year” award, but he insists he is far from finished as he continues his chase of two-sport glory.
“I don’t know, I guess my past two knockouts may have enough potential to bring me a chance for that reward,” Superlek said. “Let’s watch me go in the second half of the year.”
