Interim ONE featherweight kickboxing world champion Masaaki Noiri of Japan says Superbon won't know what will hit him at ONE 173.
In the main event of the star-studded event on Nov. 16 at Tokyo's Ariake Arena, the Japanese star will look to shed his interim tag and claim undisputed status against the reigning ONE featherweight kickboxing king.
To do so, the Team Vasileus athlete will be banking on his signature versatility and all-around repertoire. Noiri told ONE Championship in his pre-event interview:
"Superbon probably thinks he can effectively negate my fighting style. But I'm not limited to such a pressure-fighting style, and I'm capable of demonstrating more versatility."
Noiri demonstrated his signature in-fighting and forward rush when he registered a come-from-behind knockout over Tawanchai PK Saenchai in May to claim the interim belt.
However, the 32-year-old from Nagoya insisted he has more tools in his arsenal than just his crisp boxing.
Like his Team Vasileus peers, Noiri also possesses those stabbing calf kicks that he plans to use to neutralize Superbon's elite footwork.
Furthermore, Noiri believes he has also found a way to negate the Thai megastar's elite counterstriking.
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While Masaaki Noiri's explosive strikes and warrior's fighting spirit make him a formidable challenge for everyone, it's his cerebral approach to the game that separates him from the pack.
The Japanese star is heading into the biggest fight of his career and made sure he's well-equipped through extensive film study of his opponent.
Knowing Superbon's reputation as a smart and crafty fighter, he expects the Thai superstar to have done the same. The interim champ told ONE:
"I had plenty of opportunities to study him thoroughly. I'm sure he did the same. I've got my game plans locked in and ready. It's just a matter of figuring out which one to apply."