Filipino Danny Kingad will have to be at his best if he wants to get past Senzo Ikeda in their Flyweight World Grand Prix quarterfinals matchup in ONE: A New Era on March 31 in Tokyo, Japan.
Kingad initially slated to face Andrew Leone but the American withdrew from the fight due to an injury that paved way for Ikeda to fill in.
The Team Lakay up-and-comer is upbeat heading into his big bout but he also knows he can’t afford to let his guard down against the Japanese warrior.
“Senzo Ikeda is a talented competitor, and he has a lot of momentum behind him with four-straight wins, but I am confident in my capabilities and my skills,” he said.
Ikeda, who replaced the injured Andrew Leone, may be new to ONE Championship but he is no stranger to winning big fights.
The 36-year-old Ikeda is the reigning Pancrase flyweight world champion and has won his last four fights.
“Being among these talented flyweights is truly an honor, and I will not waste my chance to make a name for myself in ONE. Being on this massive card in my home country of Japan motivates me to perform to the best of my abilities and advance into the next stage of the tournament,” Ikeda said.
“I have nothing but respect for Danny Kingad, but come event night, I will do everything that I can to get the victory.”