For “The Baby Shark” Petchdam Petchyindee Academy, the chance of capturing the inaugural ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Title in his hometown on Friday, 10 May would be a dream come true.
He will challenge French-Algerian Elias “The Sniper” Mahmoudi for the vacant belt in the co-main event of ONE: WARRIORS OF LIGHT, which takes place at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.
The young star knows this bout couldn’t have come at a better time and place, especially after registering three consecutive highlight-reel knockouts in ONE Championship.
“I am really happy to get to challenge for a World Title, and even more excited that the fight will take place in my native Thailand,” the 20-year-old said.
“It is a big opportunity for me to prove that I am the best in the world in what I do. All of my efforts and the trials in my career have led up to this point, and I am ready to seize the moment. I’ve had a tremendous training camp, and I feel I am in the best shape of my life.”
There is no denying the former WBC Muay Thai World Champion keeps on improving with every passing bout. Currently, he sports an impressive record of 93-14-7.
Not only has he captured the eyes and imaginations of martial arts fans around the globe, but Malaysian athletes Agilan Thani and Saiful Merican have also cited the young star as one of their favorite ONE Super Series competitors.
“I’m proud of myself for getting to this point in my career. I also think it’s a bonus for me getting to compete in Bangkok,” Petchdam added.
“I’ve got a huge fan club here cheering me on. The atmosphere is going to be amazing.”
Although Bangkok is his den, the Thai admitted he is not taking things lightly against an opponent like “The Sniper.”
Mahmoudi is a three-time Muay Thai World Champion who put on a clinic in his unanimous decision win against Japan’s Yukinori Ogasawara in January.
The Petchyindee Academy representative knows the danger his rival possesses, which is why he will be patient and look for an opening to claim victory.
“I’ve changed my style to kickboxing. Muay Thai won’t win me this fight. I’m focusing on high-volume combinations,” Petchdam explained.
“My opponent has strong punches and a really unorthodox style. Every punch possesses danger when we wear small gloves. I cannot show off, nor can I underestimate him. I’ve got to work on my distance, timing, and evasiveness to defeat him.”
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cX0gDXIzWbc
