Kairat Akhmetov is beaming with confidence following his ONE 158 victory over Tatsumitsu Wada, and “The Kazakh” is ready to challenge whoever wins the August 26 meeting between Adriano Moraes and Demetrious Johnson.
The #2-ranked flyweight contender was clear in his intent following the event when he spoke to ONE Championship.
“I think our organization knows the best in this situation. Definitely, I do believe that I deserve that [world title shot] because I have a [five-bout] win streak. But, again, I believe in Mr. Chatri and his organization that there definitely is a reason why they [will] fight [again],” said Akhmetov.
After his unanimous decision win over Wada, the former ONE Flyweight World Champion felt his performance showed he is better than Johnson.
He compared the two performances and felt the proof was there for everyone to see.
“I also watched the fight between Demetrious Johnson and Tatsumitsu Wada. I think during that fight, Tatsumitsu was very close to winning, but everyone saw today that I was way more dominant against him,” said Akhmetov.
With the title tilt coming up in short order, Akhmetov believes he may wait for the winner instead of hopping back inside the Circle. However, nothing is guaranteed.
“Honestly, it’s already five [straight] wins now in ONE, and I think I have to make a decision. Of course, I have to do it with my teammates, but I think it’s going to be waiting for my title shot,” said Akhmetov.
“Again, I would look at the offer I have from ONE in case there will be something in between. But my decision will be final when I want to fight for a title shot.”
While “The Kazakh” is confident he is the best flyweight in the world, he knows he has to prove it against the men competing for the gold later this summer.
Who does he expect to face for the ONE Flyweight World Championship? Akhmetov gives a slight edge to the Brazilian, but he actually wants to showcase his skills against the man many consider the greatest of all time.
“You know, for me, I feel like I would put my favor for Adriano because I think he has a really good skill set,” said “The Kazakh.”
“But if you ask me, I would love to fight against Demetrious because I grew up watching his fights. It would be an honor to share the cage with him. But again, I know that I’m better than any of those two, and I’m open to fight against any of them. Let the winner win.”
