Zebaztian Kadestam sent shockwaves through the fighting world when he annihilated Croatian powerhouse Roberto Soldic in 2023.
Now, the lethal striker is back in action after a long hiatus of two years. He will face Australian-Tongan fighter Isi Fitikefu at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
On May 3, the former ONE Welterweight MMA World Champion will look to score his fourth consecutive victory during ONE Fight Night 31. He aims to win in style with a knockout.
“I’m gonna do everything I can to knock him out. First, second, or third round. I’m gonna try to find a finish,” said Kadestam. “I don’t really have a prediction, but I will do my best to knock him out.”
With a ONE Championship record of 7-4 and 100 percent finishing rate, “The Bandit” is known for his striking prowess. He possesses all the skills needed on the feet.
For almost all of his fights, his mantra remains the same – strike hard and with full force. The Swedish fighter plans to execute the same strategy in his next fight.
“My game plan is always the same. I’ve never wrestled, so I’m never gonna wrestle,” said Kadestam.
“It’s kind of putting focus on getting my body to do what my mind wants to do, and being sharp, and being able to let my mind decide, and my body will follow.”
However, the 34-year-old’s rival is in excellent form, having won two of his three fights in ONE.
Kadestam’s plan for his challenger is quite simple, but it’s easier said than done. Many fans and pundits argue that the nearly two-year long break could hamper his plans due to ring rust.
While he was away from action, Kadestam kept busy teaching the youngsters which helped him.
“I’ve been teaching a lot these past two years. And with that, I kind of dissected all the techniques for the hobbyists, or pro fighters, or amateur fighters. And it kind of makes you go through the technique on a deeper level. I believe it’s beneficial,” Kadestam said.
ONE Fight Night 31 will be broadcast live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Select 2 at 5:30 a.m. India Standard Time (IST) on Saturday, May 3.
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