Upgraded Sunoto Ready To Thrill Jakarta Crowd Once Again

“The Terminator” Sunoto is fired up to continue his remarkable record in Jakarta, Indonesia when he returns to action at ONE: FOR HONOR

Every athlete in ONE Championship relishes the opportunity to compete in front of their own fans, but few have proved to be as successful at claiming victories in their native land as the 34-year-old.

Of his eight victories in the world’s largest martial arts organization, five have come in his hometown – with four of them via stoppage – against just one defeat.

Sunoto‘s winning habit has made him one of his nation’s favorite and most successful athletes, and he will aim to bring the crowd in the Istora Senayan to its feet once again on 3 May in a bantamweight clash against his compatriot, Paul “The Great King” Lumihi.

It is no surprise that Sunoto says he feels no additional pressure to perform on his home turf. Instead, the roar from his fans should bring out the best in him once again.

“I ultimately enjoy fighting in Jakarta, as there is more support from the home crowd that lights up my spirit,” he explains

“I also enjoy spending more time in between my preparation phase closer to my family.”

Sunoto’s last match brought his lone defeat on Jakartan soil, as rising Chinese star Niu Kang Kang ended “The Terminator’s” perfect record in Indonesia.

The loss stung Sunoto, but gave him the motivation to return stronger and make amends. As soon as he was clear to train, the IndoGym and Team Phantom MMA representative was straight back on the mats to upgrade his skill set.

“We started the preparation phase in January, as soon as I completed my recovery period from the last bout,” he says.

“I immediately went back to the gym, analyzed my performance, and started improving on what I was lacking.

“Training went as usual, but my team and I evaluated several mistakes that were present in the previous bout. That way, I could learn not to repeat the same mistake, as well as acquire a better approach and technique.”

Lumihi will make his debut in The Home Of Martial Arts, but his lack of experience on the global stage masks his accomplished record.

Since losing his first professional bout, “The Great King” has gone undefeated and emerged as one of his domestic scene’s hottest talents.

The 31-year-old has built a seven-bout winning streak – which includes five finishes – and became a five-time OPMMA Featherweight Champion to attract the attention of ONE’s matchmakers.

For his part, Sunoto is aware of the skills Lumihi brings to the table, but said his experience on the biggest stage in martial arts could prove the decisive factor on the night.

“Paul is a national champion, as he is a well-rounded athlete,” he says.

“I believe he has conducted his own preparation and has his secret weapon, but I am very certain that my experience will be a better weapon for me in the cage.”