‘I Must Put On A Show’ – Elias Mahmoudi Eager To Impress Against Fellow Contender Taiki Naito At ONE Fight Night 24
Elias “The Sniper” Mahmoudi can’t wait to get back to business and forge his path toward another ONE World Title shot.
The 26-year-old Algerian returns in a flyweight kickboxing shootout with Taiki “Silent Sniper” Naito at ONE Fight Night 24: Brooks vs. Balart on Prime Video, and he knows a victory over the Japanese star live in U.S. primetime will be a big boost to his ambitions.
Mahmoudi holds the #5 spot in the division, while his foe stands at #3, so he has the potential for a big jump if he can claim victory at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, August 2.
He told onefc.com:
“I didn’t choose him. He was offered to me and I accepted. I didn’t think anything special about him. He’s a good opponent like all Japanese people in general.
“I am really motivated for this fight against Naito, my goal is victory.”
Mahmoudi has consistently faced the biggest names in his ONE tenure and Naito has a similar resume, so stepping into an elite-level clash will not faze either of them.
“The Sniper” knows that his upcoming rival is strong, but with his eyes on the flyweight top dogs, he plans on making a statement – and bolstering his bank account – when they meet in the ring.
“Naito is a complete fighter with many more strong points than weak points. I don’t think I have an advantage over him or him over me. We are both experienced fighters. The more determined fighter will win.
“One thing is certain, I am coming for the double bonus, and at least one bonus. To deserve it, I must put on a show that lives up to what the public and the boss expect of us!”
Mahmoudi Wants To Chase Muay Thai Gold After Kickboxing Win
Elias Mahmoudi lost out on the opportunity to fight for the ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Title earlier in the year due to injury, but he’s not dwelling on the setback.
Despite having to withdraw from his scheduled battle against Superlek Kiatmoo9 in January, the 26-year-old is taking the minor setback in stride and is glad to be able to compete again.
“Life is like this. It was not destined despite my desire to fight for this title. For the rest, I took the time to recover well. I am at 100 percent of my abilities.
“I wanted a kickboxing fight for my recovery from the injury to my right hand during my fight against [Edgar] Tabares.”
Although he’s highly ranked in the kickboxing division, taking that belt isn’t Mahmoudi’s only goal after his next fight in Bangkok.
The Paris native also has his sights set on another World Title – and he is already plotting out his route to get there.
Mahmoudi explained:
“After this fight, I would like to fight in Muay Thai against Denis Puric so when I win, I can have a chance to face Rodtang Jitmuangnon for the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Title. But that does not depend on me. It is the organization who has the last word.”
