‘I Belong At The Highest Level’ – Asadula Imangazaliev Eyes Main Roster Spot Against Panpayak At ONE Friday Fights 122
The biggest moment of Asadula Imangazaliev‘s promising career awaits when he graces the ONE Championship ring in the main event of ONE Friday Fights 122 on August 29, live in Asia Primetime.
The undefeated Russian knockout artist plans to make an emphatic statement with a victory over “The Angel Warrior” Panpayak Jitmuangnon in a high-stakes flyweight Muay Thai clash inside the iconic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
The 22-year-old finisher has demolished every opponent in his path, building a perfect 9-0 record with four of his five wins in ONE ending in highlight-reel finishes.
His most recent performance exemplified his knockout instincts. The second-round destruction of Denphuthai Superlek Muay Thai at ONE Friday Fights 113 showcased the explosive power that has made him one of the most dangerous young talents in the 135-pound division.
That knockout ability has positioned Imangazaliev on the doorstep of a potential life-changing US$100,000 contract to join ONE’s main roster. A decisive finish over a high-profile opponent like Panpayak would likely open that door and provide more career-defining opportunities.
Speaking to onefc.com through a translator, the confident Russian shared his mindset ahead of his stiffest test to date:
“He says that since he first got here, he’s wanted to have these big fights and big moments against top-tier opponents. Now is his time to show everyone how good he is and prove that he belongs at the highest level.”
Panpayak’s legendary credentials speak for themselves. The 29-year-old veteran is a former Lumpinee Stadium and Rajadamnern Stadium Muay Thai World Champion with a staggering 250 career victories to his name.
However, Imangazaliev’s confidence stems from a flashy arsenal that has proven devastatingly effective against elite competition. That finishing ability is reflected in the Dagestani striker’s average fight time of just over three minutes.
His dynamic techniques have left opponents struggling to adapt, while his repertoire includes powerful axe kicks, lethal spinning elbows, and flying knees that have become crowd favorites.
Despite his impressive run, the Team Mehdi Zatout affiliate believes fans haven’t seen his full potential yet:
“He says he has a lot of creative and unique techniques in his training, but what you see in the gym is only a small percentage of what he’s capable of. When he goes into the ring, he gives it 100 percent. His goal is always to get the knockout, and he’ll go for it if he sees any openings.
“He’s only 22, so he still has a lot to work on and is still developing as a fighter. He definitely hasn’t shown us everything he’s got.”
Imangazaliev Leaning On His Trademark Aggression To Overwhelm Panpayak
Despite facing a credentialed adversary, Asadula Imangazaliev plans to implement the same aggressive approach that has served him so well throughout his undefeated run.
The knockout artist believes his signature pressure can neutralize Panpayak’s technical brilliance before the Thai veteran can establish his rhythm.
The 22 year-old shared via a translator:
“He doesn’t have a specific plan regarding distance, but he knows he’s an aggressive fighter and will start that way from the get-go.”
The young finisher won’t hesitate when the opening bell rings. He intends to pounce on Panpayak immediately, leaving “The Angel Warrior” no room to display the technical mastery that made him a stadium legend in Thailand.
The Russian striker has studied Panpayak extensively and believes he’s prepared for whatever the crafty Thai veteran brings to the table.
Imangazaliev concluded:
“He understands that his opponent will be preparing to face him, so he can already picture what Panpayak will do. He’ll likely try to keep his distance and use his left kicks, and if they get close, he’ll try to clinch. However, he has a solid game plan and is well-prepared for the fight.”
