Shir Cohen stands on the precipice of making history as she prepares to challenge for the ONE Women's Atomweight Muay Thai World Title at ONE Fight Night 32 on 7 June. The 24-year-old Israeli athlete will face long-reigning champion Allycia Hellen Rodrigues at Bangkok's legendary Lumpinee Stadium in what could be a career-defining achievement.
The path to the title shot hasn't been smooth for Cohen. Originally scheduled to fight for the belt in March, an ankle injury forced her withdrawal, leading to months of physical and personal challenges.
"Life has been very complex since then. In the last seven months, I've been injured. I've been recovering. I've been dealing with some challenges back home in Israel with my family. So many things happened, and I think this was one of the hardest times of my life," Cohen said.
Despite the setbacks, Cohen's rise through ONE has been remarkable. After securing a US$100,000 contract by winning the gruelling Road to ONE: Thailand tournament, she delivered three impressive victories, including a stunning upset over Amy Pirnie in her most recent bout.
Cohen brings additional motivation to this fight as a training partner of former champion Stamp Fairtex, who lost the title to Rodrigues in 2020. The challenger is determined to reclaim the belt for her Fairtex Training Center team.
"I don't feel pressure. It gives me more motivation because if I can get this for Stamp and for the team, I will feel proud of myself," Cohen said.
Whilst respectful of her opponent's skills and experience, Cohen remains confident in her abilities.
"My footwork and my boxing [are my biggest advantages]. I will try to use them. I want to win. It doesn't matter how or what way," the Israeli star said.
Victory would make Cohen Israel's first-ever ONE World Champion, but she remains focused on the task at hand rather than the historical significance.
"I'm not different than other fighters. I'm not special, but I just work hard, and I give my heart and try my best. I have a big goal inside of me, and I have to achieve this goal. I have to," Cohen said.
ONE Fight Night 32 will be broadcast live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Select 2 at 6:30 a.m. India Standard Time (IST) on Saturday, 7 June.
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