Jamal Yusupov has been riding high since arriving in ONE Championship with a dominant knockout over the legendary Yodsanklai IWE Fairtex. But one thing has eluded him during his time on the global stage, a shot at the ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Championship. That will change for the Turkish power punch on Friday, February 24, at ONE Fight Night 7.
Jamal Yusupov Predicts KO Finish Over Tawanchai PK.Saenchai at ONE Fight Night 7
Inside the hallowed halls of Lumpinee Stadium, Yusupov will challenge Tawanchai PK.Saenchai for the gold in the evening’s co-main event. It is a moment that Yusupov has felt is long overdue. But he was never concerned, as he knew he had done enough to put himself in position to get his shot at glory.
“I have been moving toward this goal for a long time. I have been anticipating this title fight and now, I am here. I was not worried [that I had missed the opportunity]. I knew I was the number one contender, as I did not see anyone else in the division who could fight for the belt other than me. However, this fight is certainly a big step for me, and it is a big responsibility,” Yusupov told ONE.
Since he arrived in 2019, the Turkish star has only had three matches under the bright lights. By comparison, Tawanchai fought three times in 2022 alone. But that is where the 39-year-old’s experience comes into play. “Yeniceri” is fully comfortable with how his camp has gone and does not anticipate Tawanchai’s active schedule to give him an edge in Bangkok.
“I would not say that Tawanchai’s recent activity would play any role in our fight. I am preparing for this fight very seriously. The training camp went well. I am ready both mentally and physically. I am focused on this fight 100 percent now,” said Yusupov.
Sixteen years the elder, Father Time is not on Yusupov’s side. The Thai star is universally praised as one of the best pound-for-pound strikers and will have the speed advantage inside the ring. However, the Hyperion Fighters representative still believes he has key advantages in the matchup.
It has given him the confidence to call for an early end to the title tilt. Although he is prepared to go the full five rounds, Yusupov believes his boxing will set the stage for an early knockout. If true, a lifelong dream will come true, and a lasting legacy will be created for the #2-ranked featherweight Muay Thai contender.
“He is a young, tough opponent. I can point out that he is quick on his feet, and he works very well with his legs. My advantage is my boxing. Even Tawanchai himself pointed it out. He said I have good boxing. I have always been saying that boxing is my advantage, and I will prove it,” said Yusupov.
ONE Fight Night 7 airs live on Prime Video on Friday, February 24. The action begins at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST from Lumpinee Stadium. The event is free for all Amazon Prime subscribers based in the U.S. and Canada.
