Ryan Jakiri first PH bet to compete in ONE Super Series
Ryan Jakiri is set to become the first Filipino to compete in ONE Super Series when he clashes with China’s Han Zi Hao in a kickboxing bout in the undercard of ONE: Pursuit of Greatness on Friday at Thuwunna Indoor Stadium in Yangon, Myanmar.
Jakiri, who hails from Zamboanga City, is a six-time Philippine national Muay Thai champion but the person standing in his way from making a good first impression in his promotional debut is no pushover.
The 23-year-old Han has 58 wins across his name with 15 losses and Jakiri knows he can’t afford not to be in top form.
“The ONE Super Series locker room has the best of the best in both Muay Thai and kickboxing. It’s a chance for me to raise my stock as a competitor in this sport,” said Jakiri.
“I do not think Han Zi Hao offers anything I have not seen. I need to be ready for his fast hands, but otherwise, I do not think he is superior to me in any aspect,” he said. “I think he and I are stylistically similar, so I am looking to prevail over him with the improvement I have been making in my game.”
Han split his last two fights, bowing to Cyprus’ Panicos Yusuf on points in July before beating Greek striker Stergos Mikkios via unanimous decision last month.
Jakiri said he’s ready for anyone in his goal to be the No. 1 fighter in his class.
“I will fight anyone as long as it will lead me to the top of my weight class. I am dedicated on making the most of any opportunity that ONE Championship grants me,” he said.
“My goal is to win my bout in ONE Super Series on Friday. I am here for a reason and a purpose. While it’s a great feeling to represent the Philippines on the international stage, it’s also a big opportunity for me to reach for the stars and turn my dreams into reality.”
