Liam Harrison On A Mission To End the Title Reign of Nong-O Gaiyanghadao

Nong-O Gaiyanghadao has held on to the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Championship since winning it against Han Zi Hao three years ago. Moreover, the Thai striker has defended his belt five times, which has also kept him undefeated in The Home of Martial Arts.

Therefore, defeating the legend seems to be a tall order for Liam Harrison. But if that’s what it takes to become the ONE World Champion, the British striker accepts the challenge. And he will get his shot at ONE Fight Night 1: Moraes vs. Johnson II on 27 August.

“Hitman” relishes the opportunity to face a great champion in Nong-O because it’s the fight he’s wanted all along. He got next against the longtime division king after a sensational victory of Muangthai PK.Saenchai at ONE 156: Eersel vs. Sadikovic.

With his back against the ropes, Harrison came from behind to score three consecutive knockdowns to complete a first-round stoppage after being knocked by Muangthai to the canvas twice. 

Aside from the title shot, the Bad Company representative also received a US$100,000 performance bonus from ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong.

“Everyone has always asked me, ‘Who do you wish you could have fought?’ I always said Nong-O, but I thought I might never get the chance. Now I have. And especially now for his belt as well. So, it came at a perfect time,” the competitor from Leeds said.

Harrison’s punching power will be a test for Nong-O because it has helped him to a five-fight winning streak of his own. Still, the Englishman maintains respect for Nong-O because he has consistently delivered against tough opposition.

“I know what level of skill this man is on. I’m not an idiot. He’s one of the most skilful fighters [of all time]. So, what else am I going to do? I’m not going to change my style now just because I’m coming across one of the best fighters of all time,” Harrison said.

But given that he has also had success in the ONE Championship, Harrison pointed out that he has the tools to end Nong-O’s reign. For that result to happen, he will bring the fight to the ONE World Champion by unleashing heavy strikes.

For him, there’s no sense in changing fighting styles because it is his formula for success. Therefore, he will leave everything inside the ONE Circle and seek a knockout victory against Nong-O. In fact, he will not run away from the challenge if it boils down to trading leather.

“If anyone could knock him out, it’s me. Nobody he has fought with punches as I do. If I land clean, anyone in 4-ounce gloves will go,” Harrison said.

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