Former ONE flyweight champ acknowledges Danny Kingad's strengths ahead of showdown
Former ONE flyweight world champion Kairat Akhmetov knows the danger in fighting Danny Kingad of Team Lakay.
The pair of top flyweights are set to collide on the undercard of ONE: Big Bang on December 4 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
“He doesn’t have many holes in his game. He is a complete fighter who can strike, wrestle, and grapple well. He always has good cardio too,” said Akhmetov.
“But me and my coach have analyzed him a lot. Everyone has some weak spots, and I will work on exploiting him when we meet.”
The 24-year-old from Baguio City was supposed to fight Akhmetov in the semi-finals of the ONE flyweight world grand prix but the latter had to withdraw due to an injury.
Kingad ultimately fought and won over Reece McLaren then fell short in the finals against former UFC flyweight world champion Demetrious Johnson.
“Danny is a very interesting fighter with a big heart and a strong will to win. He is a very explosive, and well-rounded athlete. This bout is interesting to me because we were supposed to face each other in the Grand Prix,” Akhmetov stated.
“Now, we have a chance to finish our business. I have only a good impression of him. He is a really good and worthy opponent.”
Knowing all too well that the victor on fight night is likely to face the winner of the Adriano Moraes and Demetrious Johnson title bout, Akhmetov stressed that he is ready to give his all and more against Kingad.
“I’m confident in all areas of my game. I’m not just a wrestler. We are ranked very high in this division, and this match is a can’t-miss for all fans,” Akhmetov iterated.
“There’s a lot on the line in this one. I will do everything in my power to get my hand raised on that day. Everything else is up to the Almighty.” — LA, GMA News