Kickboxing superstar Giorgio Petrosyan is set to return to ONE Championship on one of the biggest cards of the year.
Petrosyan (97-2-2, 1 NC) will take on Thailand’s Sorgraw Petchyindee Academy (36-17) in a ONE Super Series bout at ONE: HEART OF THE LION in Singapore on Friday, November 9.
The Armenian-Italian ace says he is thoroughly enjoying life in the world’s largest martial arts organization following his debut victory over “Smokin” Jo Nattawut back in April.
“I experienced a completely new atmosphere,” the two-time K-1 World Max Champion says.
“How they treat the fighters, how they look after their weight, and the care that ONE has for the athletes is really unique. It makes us feel happy and safe.”
Petrosyan’s contentment with ONE is notable, given his career experience competing for the biggest and best kickboxing promotions around the world. But even he was taken aback by what greeted him in Asia in ONE Super Series.
“Other organisations like K-1 and Glory have been really good, but ONE is another level – another planet,” he says.
The 32-year-old’s win over Nattawut solidified what many already knew – that Petrosyan is one of the very best kickboxers on the planet.
And his upcoming 71-kilogram catchweight bout against Lumpinee Stadium and WMC World Champion Sorgraw offers another fascinating clash that “The Doctor” is looking forward to.
“I know it will be a tough fight. He’s really strong with his kicks,” the Armenian-Italian says.
“I noticed he doesn’t like to exchange punches much. It will be in a cage too, so that’s exciting for me to try.
“Of course, I start with a game plan, which I cannot reveal now, but then I will change things particular to him, analyze it, and surprise him. I will just decide on my strategy moment by moment, round by round.”
The bout will also present a fresh test for the experienced Petrosyan. After 102 bouts contested in a traditional ring, the kickboxing superstar will make his first appearance in a cage.
It promises to be an exciting moment as the pound-for-pound star faces one of Thailand’s best on a packed night of martial arts action in the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
“It is my first time in the cage under kickboxing rules,” he says.
“I know it will be exciting for the fans, and even for me.”