In Photos: Superlek Prepares For Dayakaev Rematch At Open Workout Ahead Of The Inner Circle 25
Reigning ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion “The Kicking Machine” Superlek took part in an open workout on Tuesday, July 28, at Yokkao Training Center in Bangkok, Thailand, putting his striking on full display ahead of one of the most anticipated rematches of the year.
The 30-year-old Thai star spoke to media as he prepares to settle the score with Russian knockout artist Abdulla “Smash Boy” Dayakaev at The Inner Circle 25 on Friday, August 7, from the prestigious Lumpinee Stadium. The bout streams exclusively for members on live.onefc.com.
The Thai icon carries a 139-32 career record and a 15-4 mark in ONE Championship into this rematch, having collected victories over some of the most celebrated names in combat sports — including Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon, Takeru “Natural Born Krusher” Segawa, Jonathan “The General” Haggerty, and Nabil Anane, among others. His combination of technical brilliance, ring IQ, and devastating kicking power has made him one of the most feared strikers in the world for the better part of a decade.
But the past several months have been uncharacteristic for the champion. “The Kicking Machine” has dropped back-to-back-to-back bouts, with the most recent being a deeply controversial split-decision loss to Dayakaev in their Muay Thai encounter in May.
Over three intense rounds, both fighters threw everything they had at each other in a battle that could have gone either way. When the judges returned their verdict in Dayakaev’s favor, the Muay Thai community erupted. Pundits and fans alike argued that Superlek had done enough to win, and the outcry was loud enough that a rematch was swiftly announced.
Now, Superlek gets the chance to make things right. A win over Dayakaev on August 7 would do more than just even the score — it would silence the doubters, snap his losing skid, and reaffirm that one of ONE Championship’s most decorated titleholders is far from finished.
With the energy of a passionate home crowd behind him at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium, “The Kicking Machine” arrives at this rematch with a point to prove. Tuesday’s open workout offered a glimpse of a fighter sharpened, focused, and ready for action.
Before Superlek looks to avenge his recent loss, here are some photos from the open workout session at Yokkao Training Center in Bangkok, Thailand.
