Superlek Determined To Show The Beauty Of Muay Thai In Bangkok
Superlek Kiatmoo9 is determined to show the beauty and power of Muay Thai in his ONE Championship debut this Saturday, 16 February.
The two-time Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai World Champion will go up against Cambodian Top Team’s Lao Chetra in a Muay Thai flyweight bout at ONE: CLASH OF LEGENDS.
As part of the most stacked ONE Super Series lineup yet, the pair will don 4-ounce mixed martial arts gloves in Bangkok, Thailand’s Impact Arena.
“I want to do the sport of Muay Thai justice,” Superlek says.
“I want to win, but what is more, I want it to be a really beautiful performance.”
The occasion will mark the start of Superlek’s quest for another World Title to his already impressive résumé on the global stage for martial arts.
It will be a tough road to the top. The flyweight division is stacked with World Champions including Petchdam Petchyindee Academy, Panpayak Jitmuangnon, and the weight class’ current king, Sam-A Gaiyanghadao.
However, Superlek has proved throughout his 120-28-2 record that he can mix it up with the very best, and he backs himself to succeed.
His first test will come from a 19-year-old from Cambodia. Despite his young age, Chetra has reached the top of the Kun Khmer world by building a 120-21-5 record and capturing the Bayon Stadium World Title.
Superlek is well aware of his opponent’s reputation and skill, but still feels he will have the edge under the lights.
“He’s a good fighter, but I have more experience,” he says.
“He’s got a vicious elbow and a solid left kick. I need to watch for those, but the rest will just have to play out in the ring.
“He’s tough and durable. I need to make sure my conditioning is on point.”
Hailing from one of Thailand’s most iconic gyms – Kiatmoo9 – you can expect that will not be a problem for Superlek.
The facility in Prakhon Chai, Buriram is renowned for producing generations of World Champions who are strong, with excellent cardio, and phenomenal skills.
Superlek, however, plays down anything special about his training center, insisting his success is the product of a strong work ethic and the support of his team.
“Our gym is just like any other gym,” he says.
“We all have to work hard, know our place, and know when to rest too.”
“We each have a role at the gym, and work together to get everything done.”
Still humble despite more than a decade of success, but excited by a brand new challenge in front of him, fans can be sure the 23-year-old will be prepared to put on a show.
What’s more, the support of his compatriots inside a sold-out Impact Arena should push him to deliver a signature performance.
“Lots of people want to compete for ONE Championship, but I got the opportunity. I’m not going to let my fans down,” he adds.
“It’s exciting to fight in front in such a large crowd. I’m coming to impress!”
