Naito poses a serious threat to Superlek
Superlek “The Kicking Machine” Kiatmoo9 is intensely preparing for the One flyweight Muay Thai world grand prix, which kicks off its quarter-final round at One 157: Petchmorakot vs Vienot on Friday at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
The Thai fighter is ready to take out anyone to earn the tournament’s silver belt and also make a claim for the divisional gold.
Superlek has drawn Japan’s Taiki Naito in the opening round. Even though he is not underestimating his opponent completely, the No.2 ranked flyweight Muay Thai contender is confident that the “Silent Sniper” doesn’t have what it takes to score a win when they meet. “I see that he has a good kicking speed, and I think he’s probably faster than me because he has a karate background,” Superlek said.
“But when it comes to damage power, I believe that my kicks are heavier than him. Let’s see in the ring. I would say that I haven’t got just my deadly kicks, I will add elbows and fists, too. I’ve sharpened my elbows for this fight. There must be bloodshed if my elbow can connect.”
The four-time Muay Thai world champion has brought home 128 wins in his career, and at only 26 years old, it seems he’s only getting started.
Superlek is eager to participate in the grand prix as he’ll get to face the best men the division has to offer.
“I’m super excited to be part of the Muay Thai world grand prix, because this is a very big tournament and it’s under the rules of Muay Thai that I am good at, too. I think I’m one of the best Muay Thai fighters to show my skills in this competition. And I will do my best,” he said.
Naito may pose a more dangerous threat than Superlek expects, however.
He is a Japanese shootboxing champion and holds a 6-1 record in the One circle across kickboxing and Muay Thai.
The only defeat he has suffered in the promotion was to Jonathan “The General” Haggerty, who currently sits as the top-ranked contender in the flyweight Muay Thai division.
“The Kicking Machine” has been studying his opponent, though, and he believes he’s spotted flaws in his game, flaws that he will exploit when they square off on Friday night.
“I found that his defence isn’t that good. He often leaves holes for opponents to throw punches at him. Certainly, his previous performance was good, but I’m not worried about him at all because I believe in myself that I will overcome him this time,” Superlek said.
Watch One 157: Petchmorakot vs Vienot live on AIS Play from 4pm on May 20 with the main card scheduled at 7.30pm.