‘His Time Has Passed’ – Alaverdi Ramazanov Targets Nong-O After Revenge Win Over Capitan
Alaverdi Ramazanov’s hard-fought decision victory over Capitan Petchyindee at ONE 161 was a pivotal fight for both his own career and the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title picture.
Not only did Ramazanov extend his winning streak in the sport to three and earn the #2 contender spot, but he also got payback against the man who took his ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title just over 20 months ago.
Now, the Russian superstar is eying a showdown with the bantamweight Muay Thai division’s first and only king.
But before he could challenge for another World Title, “Babyface Killer” needed to exact revenge against Capitan – the last man to beat him inside the Circle.
He said:
“[Capitan] knocked me out two years ago, and I’ve been thinking about getting a rematch since then. Thoughts of revenge have not left my mind for two years.”
Despite suffering a knockout in his first battle with Capitan, the Russian came into ONE 161 brimming with confidence.
And if they ever meet in a trilogy showdown, he would have no doubt about the outcome, either.
Ramazanov said:
“I was not surprised with the victory. I had played that fight repeatedly in my head a hundred times before we met in the Circle last week, and I had come out the winner a hundred times. If I had to fight him a hundred more times in the Circle, I would have won because I’m stronger. I’m the better fighter.”
Alaverdi Ramazanov Wants World Title Shot
Not one to mince words or waste time, Alaverdi Ramazanov wasn’t shy about his next target – legendary striker and reigning ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nong-O Gaiyanghadao.
Moments after beating Capitan, the Russian took to the mic and demanded a shot at Nong-O, who immediately took notice.
And given his new status as the division’s #2 contender, “Babyface Killer” sees no reason why he shouldn’t receive the next World Title opportunity.
He said:
“I should get a fight with Nong-O for the belt. This belt should be mine. I saw on social media that he knows about me wanting to challenge me and he replied that it’s on. So, let’s go!”
Given the bantamweight Muay Thai king’s response on Instagram, Ramazanov could soon find himself across from the man he calls the “best fighter in ONE.”
Moreover, the pair share some history. The Russian striker was set to face Nong-O in March 2020 at a ONE Championship event that was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
If that bout eventually happens, “Babyface Killer” will be well-aware of what the pound-for-pound great brings to the table.
He said:
“[Nong-O is] a dangerous opponent. I think he’s the best fighter in ONE, the best Muay Thai boxer in the world. He has a long winning streak, he’s a knockout fighter, clean striking and kicking. Nong-O is a dangerous and technical opponent.”
But while he’s complimentary of the longtime World Champion’s skills and accomplishments, fans shouldn’t confuse that praise with self-doubt.
Instead, Ramazanov insists the Thai megastar’s reign at the top is nearing an end.
He added:
“His time has passed, and it’s my time. I’m sure I’ll take the belt from him.”