Shamil Erdogan Aiming for Huge Victory Over Aung La N Sang

LockerRoom Team

31 Aug 2024

Shamil Erdogan's clash with Aung La N Sang at ONE 168 is one of the most eagerly anticipated bouts, and Erdogan’s preparation and mindset reveal why he believes this fight could be a game-changer for him.

Immediate Acceptance and Strategic Focus

Erdogan's acceptance of the fight was immediate. "As soon as I saw that Aung La N Sang had re-signed with ONE, I knew we would fight. It was inevitable," Erdogan remarked. His eagerness is driven by the desire to test himself against one of the sport’s elite. "He's one of the best, a two-division champion. A win over him will open the door for me to challenge for a championship belt," Erdogan explained.

Analyzing Aung La N Sang

Erdogan has thoroughly analyzed his opponent, noting, "Aung La has good striking technique and the heart of a warrior. His weakness, however, is wrestling, and that’s where I believe I can exploit him." He expects to capitalize on his superior wrestling skills, stating, "It’s unlikely he will be able to defend against my attacks. I’m on a different level in wrestling."

Fight Strategy and Expectations

Erdogan is confident in his strategy. "I don’t think the fight will last three rounds. In Sha Allah, I’ll take him down in the second round. I plan to finish the fight in the stand-up and secure the bonus," he said. His bold prediction includes a knockout finish, emphasizing his intention to impress both the audience and ONE Championship’s executives.

Preparation and Personal Background

Erdogan's preparation has been rigorous. "The first stage of my camp was in Dagestan, focusing on wrestling, and now I’m in Thailand at Tiger Muay Thai," he noted. His training routine remains consistent, as he believes in refining his established techniques rather than incorporating new elements.

Reflecting on his journey, Erdogan shared his gratitude for his upbringing. "My father’s discipline was crucial. He made me attend every practice and supported me throughout my competitions," he said. This upbringing instilled in him the values of dedication and resilience, essential for his current success.

Representation and Identity

Representing Turkey, Erdogan’s decision was influenced by an offer from the Turkish National Team, leading to a name change as part of his citizenship process. "I agreed to represent Turkey and changed my last name as a condition. Now, I am known as Shamil Erdogan," he explained.

As ONE 168 approaches, Erdogan’s blend of strategic insight, rigorous preparation, and personal motivation positions him as a formidable contender against Aung La N Sang. His quest for victory is not just about personal glory but a step towards his ultimate goal: a championship title.