Marat Grigorian handled business at ONE Friday Fights 92. Just before the holiday season got in full swing, the elite featherweight kickboxer ousted Abdelali Zahidi by second-round knockout. It was a blessing for Grigorian to close the year strongly and prepare for another run toward ONE Championship gold in the new year.
“I was happy to be back in the ring. I was just happy to fight against Zahidi. I was a bit surprised that he accepted the fight,” Marat Grigorian told ONE.
Marat Grigorian Has Glowing Words For Zahidi After Win
Even though he was able to finish his opponent, Grigorian was still complimentary of his opponent. Zahidi impressed the Armenian throughout the first round of their battle. However, once the 33-year-old started rolling, he was a runaway train.
“[Zahidi] did a good job. You know, he did a good job. It was a little bit short notice for me, this fight. It was really last minute, but I accepted the fight. As a fighter, you need to be always ready. And yes, I’m happy that I took the fight. I got the chance to fight again, so it was good,” Marat Grigorian expressed.
Knockout Win Huge Boon for Marat Grigorian’s Championship Hopes
The quick night at the office was necessary for Marat Grigorian to rejoin the chase for the title. After losing his last bid, the wheels could have come off quickly. Instead, he proved his championship mettle by returning in form and delivering a strong performance for his fans.
“For my fans, thank you. All around the world, I always get so much love and support around the world. Thank you for following me. Thank you for always sending me nice things, and I hope to be back as soon as possible,” the Armenian stated.
SHUT DOWN 😵 Kickboxing legend Marat Grigorian swarms Abdelali Zahidi for a statement KO!#ONEFridayFights92 | 🔴 LIVE NOW
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Marat Grigorian knows he needs more wins to earn a shot at the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Championship. Luckily for him, there was another big matchup at ONE Friday Fights 92. Seeing the action go down in person, the 33-year-old thinks he could match up well against the other victor in Bangkok.
“I saw that [Liu Mengyang] beat Noiri. So maybe [I’d face] him, I don’t know. Who else? So maybe I am going to fight against him,” the featherweight said.
Ultimately, it is all about getting to the top of the sport. Marat Grigorian will undoubtedly have his eyes set on the ONE 170 main event when ONE Interim Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion Superbon challenges Tawanchai PK Saenchai for the ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Title.
Grigorian can anticipate what the 2025 calendar may entail for the title and begin to prepare for how he can get back to an all-important title shot.
“That’s the goal, that’s the mindset, you know? I’m aiming to be the World Champion,” Marat Grigorian finished.