Multiple-time World Champion Jimmy Vienot will make his ONE Championship debut on Friday, May 20, as he steps into the main event against Petchmorakot Petchyindee at ONE 157.
The debut will be a massive opportunity for the Frenchman as he tries to acquire the ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Championship from the dominant Thai star.
But Vienot is not intimidated by his opponent. He feels that he can pull off the shocking upset in his first bout on the global stage.
“I’m looking forward very much to this match. I’ve trained a lot, and I’m impatiently waiting for it, you know. To be able to prove myself,” said Vienot at the virtual media day.
“I know he actually doesn’t underestimate me, but you have to respect everybody. Of course, if he does, that gives me an advantage.”
At the ONE 157 Virtual Media Day, Petchmorakot alluded to Vienot’s size for the featherweight division. That is one attribute that the challenger believes he can use to claim gold in his first bout in ONE.
But he also believes he is the best opponent, to date, for the Petchyindee Academy superstar.
“I’m stronger than him, and so far, he has had only easier opponents, so I’ll be the man,” said Vienot.
“I think my boxing style is more beautiful. I fight more beautifully. And I will be very hard on him. I came here to show everybody that I can do it.”
Vienot is already looking beyond the Muay Thai ranks. The main event challenger hopes to become a two-sport World Champion in ONE by claiming the featherweight kickboxing title as well.
But, for now, he is happy to be a part of the roster as it gives him a chance to show the world that he stands atop the featherweight division.
“I’m very happy and proud to be able to be part of this, the biggest fighting organization in the world. So yeah, I’ve trained very hard to be here, and I gave everything up myself to be here. So I’m very happy and proud,” said Vienot.
“That’s it. That’s my plan. It’s to go and get both belts.”
Vienot gets his first shot at the ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Title on Friday, May 20.
ONE 157 airs live and free on watch.onefc.com and the ONE Super App at 5 a.m. ET/2 a.m. PT. The main card will begin at 8:30 a.m. ET/5:30 a.m. PT.