Super-heavyweights ready to crown KO king

The first King in the Ring event of 2018 is expected to be as wide open as ever as the big boys return to the elimination event.

Eight super-heavyweight kickboxers will showcase their knockout power in a series of bouts at Auckland’s YMCA Stadium tonight in a bid to find the last man standing.

With Paulo Lakai not returning to defend the title he won in 2015, a new champion will be crowned and Wellington’s Nato La’auli is determined to go one better after two runner-up finishes at heavyweight.

He faces a fierce challenge from Christchurch fighter Riki Barclay, who won the IKBF Commonwealth title late last year.

And with the likes of Ata Fakalelu, Wayne Hehea and Auckland prospect David Tuitupou all packing some serious power, La’auli knows nothing is certain in the 100kg+ division.

‘‘The new boys that have come through, they’re a threat because I don’t know anything about them,’’ La’auli said. ‘‘The boys like Riki, Ata and Wayne are all heavy hitters and one punch from them could finish a fight. Each and every one of them is capable of being favourites.

‘‘I’ve done enough of these to know that anything can happen but all I can do is be prepared as I possibly can.’’

The King in the Ring is an eliminator series that began in 2011, with the winner having to defeat three opponents in one night.

The brainchild of six-time world kickboxing champion Jason Suttie, the tournament has proven to be a genuine pathway onto the global fight scene for several Kiwi athletes.

Three-time winner Israel Adesanya fought for the Glory world title and is now making waves in the UFC alongside former middleweight champion Dan Hooker.

Last year’s heavyweight winner Carlos Ulberg has recently signed a contract to compete in China, while former welterweight Brad Riddell has joined One FC’s kickboxing roster.