‘His Strikes Are Powerful’ – Kongthoranee, Aslamjon Ortikov Promise Carnage At ONE Fight Night 36
The flyweight Muay Thai division stands on the brink of upheaval when #4-ranked Kongthoranee Sor Sommai collides with undefeated Uzbek sensation Aslamjon Ortikov at ONE Fight Night 36: Prajanchai vs. Di Bella II on Prime Video.
This critical showdown between two distinguished strikers takes place live in U.S. primetime on Friday, October 3, from Bangkok, Thailand.
In this fight, a calculated tactician will attempt to protect his ranking against an explosive young phenom looking to extend his perfect run. Both men have promised an unforgettable war for as long as it lasts.
Kongthoranee Refuses To Be Ortikov’s Stepping Stone
Kongthoranee knows exactly where Ortikov stands because he’s walked that path himself. The Thai veteran clawed his way from obscurity on the regional circuit, and eventually earned a coveted six-figure contract at ONE Friday Fights to evolve into a legitimate World Title contender.
Now, the hungry Ortikov is coming for everything Kongthoranee has built, threatening to strip away the Thai’s ranking, reputation, and World Title dreams.
Kongthoranee has studied his dangerous opponent and likes what he sees. But respect doesn’t mean he harbors any fear for the 22-year-old Uzbekistani.
The Sor Sommai representative declared:
“I used to watch Aslamjon fight, and I was surprised by his performance. It feels good to be a ranked fighter because he probably has his eyes on me. If he beats me, he could get into the rankings.
“I saw his fighting style against Dedduanglek, he has a bit of a tricky, taunting style, and that makes me feel good. It’ll be fun when we meet in the ring.”
Ortikov’s meteoric rise through the ranks has been impossible to ignore. His perfect 22-0 professional record has been built on his devastating power and relentless aggression.
While Kongthoranee admits to be impressed, he believes his calm, calculated approach to this fight is the perfect antidote for Ortikov’s venom.
The multi-time Rajadamnern Stadium Muay Thai World Champion is confident he can drag his opponent into deep water and expose the young fighter’s limitations:
“Aslamjon has won eight fights in ONE, and he has dangerous and fast attacks. His strikes are powerful. He’s knocked out four of his opponents, but I believe I can handle his power. I’m confident I can take his hardest shots.
“I’m sure he has some weaknesses, but I’ll have to find them during the fight. I’ll look for an opening to counter him. My strength is my persistence. If it turns into a long fight, I think I’m stronger, and I can win.”
Those aren’t hollow words. Training at PK Saenchai Gym alongside World Champions like Tawanchai PK Saenchai and Prajanchai PK Saenchai has sharpened Kongthoranee’s weapons.
The 28-year-old wants to erase Ortikov’s pristine record with a finish that will shake the division.
Kongthoranee left no doubt about his intentions:
“The way I see it, someone’s getting carried out on a stretcher. If I make a mistake, I’ll go down, and if he makes one, he’ll go down. And I’m going to be the one to put him on that stretcher.”
Ortikov Eyes World Title Path Through Kongthoranee
Aslamjon Ortikov has watched Kongthoranee’s remarkable run with keen interest.
The Thai veteran has 11 wins against elite competition, split two wars with former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nong-O Hama, and held his own against ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion “The Kicking Machine” Superlek.
Even in defeat, Kongthoranee has proven that he belongs among the sport’s greatest, so calling out such a dangerous opponent speaks volumes.
After obliterating Petsukumvit Boi Bangna to earn his US$100,000 main roster contract, Ortikov knew he wanted to face someone who had battled the division’s elite.
The TC Muaythai and Sport club Shakhriyor athlete explained:
“After I got the contract, I asked for him, and Mr. Chatri gave me that opportunity. I was really happy. So now I have to do my job, which is to go there, win, and get the bonus if possible.
“It’s a fight that I’ve wanted for a long time. I just want to share a ring with him because he is a great fighter. I never choose a fighter of a lesser level. I want to fight the best one. To be the best, you have to beat the best, so I am ready. That’s why I called him out.”
Ortikov knows what he’s up against. Kongthoranee’s technical precision and ability to stay calm in chaos make him a nightmare matchup for anyone. The Thai veteran’s counter-striking has befuddled countless opponents.
But the undefeated Uzbek phenom has an ace up his sleeve — his ability to shatter game plans and impose his relentless pace.
Ortikov continued:
“He is really strong. He has good timing. I cannot say he has a weakness, but when they fight with me, they cannot do whatever they want to do. Because my style is really different. Let’s see if he can use it during the fight.”
Ortikov understands the magnitude of his U.S. primetime debut. Beating Kongthoranee will validate his undefeated run and cement his status as a legitimate World Title threat in the world’s largest martial arts organization.
The 22-year-old warrior concluded:
“This is my first fight with my new contract, and if I win, I’m going to be in the ranking, and then I’m going to be close to the belt. This is so important, so I’m going to do everything to win this fight.”
