The ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Grand Prix got underway at ONE 157 with four exceptional quarterfinal bouts. After four dominating performances, the semifinalists are set for an explosive clash later in 2022.
One of the interested parties is Stamp Fairtex. The atomweight star has experience in Grand Prix tournaments as the ONE Atomweight World Grand Prix Champion. The Thai athlete gave her thoughts on the quarterfinals and semifinal matchups to ONE Championship.
“I believe all eight fighters did their best. Everyone was ready for a single-ticket scramble. They were all physically and mentally ready. That night, everyone put on amazing performances,” said Stamp.
“For Rodtang [Jitmuangnon] and Savvas [Michael], I think Rodtang will win because he attacks better. The only way for Savvas to defeat Rodtang is to go toe-to-toe with him with a strong heart and be conscious of not falling into Rodtang’s game.”
“In the Superlek [Kiatmoo9] vs. Walter [Goncalves] matchup, Walter’s style is very similar to Rodtang’s. In his last match against Rodtang, he lost unanimously. I think if he gets into Superlek’s shin zone, Superlek will have a chance to win, but if Walter can dominate his range, Walter probably wins. But I still prefer Superlek.”
The atomweight contender is not straying from the chalk as she thinks Rodtang and Superlek will collide in the finals.
The two tournament favorites are being put on a collision course by most, and Stamp agrees with the pick.
“I think Rodtang and Superlek will face each other in the final. It will be a very exciting match. This has been a highly anticipated match for a long time. If they meet in ONE, it would be fun to watch,” said the atomweight contender.
As noted before the tournament began, if any other athlete captures the tournament crown besides Rodtang, they will receive an automatic shot at the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship.
But the former two-sport World Champion does not believe that will be the case. Stamp has picked Rodtang to maintain his streak and claim the silver belt.
“If I had to choose who would become the Grand Prix Champion, I would pick Rodtang because his style is more entertaining to fans and judges. But everything is uncertain,” said Stamp.
“My hat is off to Rodtang because Rodtang is a true brawler, and he’s even more dangerous when wearing small gloves. His fists are more precise and sharper than everyone else’s.”