Katsuki Kitano is ready for his breakout moment. He will get that opportunity in U.S. primetime when ONE Championship returns to Prime Video. On Friday, June 7, he meets one of the biggest names in the bantamweight Muay Thai division, Liam Harrison, at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II.
“Since he’s a big name, if I can beat him, this is a great opportunity. I’ve known about him for a long time, and I saw my senior Yamato Tetsuya fight him before, so when I got the offer, I thought, ‘Wow, it’s my turn now.’ I decided I’d go for it wholeheartedly. He’s a big name, so it really motivates me,” Kitano expressed to ONE.
Harrison is excited for the match himself, as it marks his return to action following injury. The Brit also knows that time is ticking away as he nears the end of his career. Although on the backside of his career, Kitano is not taking any chances and is preparing for the “Hitman” as if he were in his prime.
“I need to watch out for his low kicks. And I think he’s faster than I expected, so I have to be careful about that. His weakness is that I have the reach advantage over him. But still, I don’t think he has any openings. I’m training hard to make sure I win,” the Japanese athlete said.
If there is any area where Kitano believes age could play a factor, it is with his cardio. As the younger athlete, the Japanese star feels he can keep a higher pace throughout the three-round matchup if needed. Still, he knows Harrison may rely on his veteran savvy to carry him through.
“I think my kicking game is an advantage since I’ve been doing Muay Thai for so long. I’m younger, so I have the stamina advantage if I train properly. I’m making sure his longer career doesn’t let him make up for that,” Kitano stated.
With a top-tier opponent like Harrison, Kitano knows a win could elevate him into the title picture. That is why the Japanese athlete wants not only a win but a finish. “Bong” wants to leave a lasting impression in Bangkok.
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“I have to get the KO. That will really put my name out there. I’m going for the knockout,” the bantamweight striker said,” the bantamweight striker said.
That aside, Kitano wants to show the world the might of Japanese strikers. However, he also wants to put himself at the forefront of that movement. With the likes of Takeru Segawa and Masaaki Noiri, Kitano intends to use this platform and performance to set himself apart as the man to carry the Japanese flag forward in combat sports.
“I want to show the world the strength of Japanese fighters. And also that I’m different from other Japanese fighters – don’t underestimate me. I want people to see that this Japanese fighter is different,” Kitano explained.
ONE 167 airs live on Friday, June 7, from Bangkok. The action begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The event is free for all Amazon Prime subscribers based in the U.S. and Canada.
