Former multi-division, multi-sport ONE World Champion Sam-A Gaiyanghadao stands one win away from reclaiming gold in the division he vacated in 2022 against the man who claimed the throne in his absence.
At ONE 172 on Sunday, March 23, Sam-A meets Jonathan Di Bella for the ONE Interim Strawweight Kickboxing World Title.
The 41-year-old legend is looking to turn away Father Time while meeting one of the fastest and most technical strikers in the division.
“Di Bella is a skilled fighter. He often throws punches in combinations. He has a real kickboxing style. I have watched many of his fights. But I see some weaknesses in him and I will take advantage of them in the ring,” Sam-A said.
The difference, at least in Sam-A’s opinion, is the raw power he possesses.
Should the opportunity present itself inside Saitama Super Arena in Japan, he plans to strike with devastating force.
“If I get a chance, I will knock him out. We have to wait and see on the ring. Now I can't tell if this fight will be long or short. But if I see a chance, I will finish him,” the Thai superstar said.
While easier said than done, Sam-A has looked like his former self since his return to the global stage. Continuing that trend would be a crucial step to setting up a rematch against ONE Strawweight Kickboxing and Muay Thai World Champion Prajanchai PK Saenchai.
But revenge is not on his mind. Instead, he is focused on continuing to write his legacy.
“It would be an honor in my career,” Sam-A said. “For me to retire and still come back to be a champion would be a great legacy for me.”
ONE 172: Rodtang vs. Takeru airs live on Sunday, March 23, from Japan on global pay-per-view via watch.onefc.com.
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