Undefeated Alibeg Rasulov arrives in ONE Championship this weekend with an immediate opportunity to stamp his authority on the promotion’s lightweight division.
Born in Russia and representing Turkey, Rasulov brings a perfect professional record of 13-0 to his ONE Championship debut, where he’ll take on former titleholder Ok Rae Yoon at ONE Fight Night 23 for the interim ONE lightweight title, and a future shot at promotional superstar and reigning lightweight king Christian Lee later this year.
The 31-year-old has big plans for a title reign in ONE and, ahead of his clash with Ok for the interim lightweight title, Rasulov shared his thoughts on the upcoming matchup in a quickfire Q&A session during fight week in Bangkok, Thailand.
What makes you look forward to your ONE Championship debut?
I’m not really nervous. It’s just an important fight, and there’s a lot at stake.
What do you know about Ok Rae Yoon as an opponent?
I watched my opponent’s fights. He prefers stand-up and doesn’t let himself be taken down. He’s got good cardio.
What do you see as your opponent’s best attributes?
Again, his stand-up and his cardio. Also, his experience. He has already fought against experienced opponents. And he has the experience of five-round fights. But I think it will be harder for him with me.
How about Ok’s weakness?
I don’t see any weaknesses in my opponent, he is a strong fighter. But it won’t be so easy for him with me.
What will be your biggest advantage in the fight?
My advantage, I think, is that I am more functionally ready than he is.
What is your prediction for how this fight will play out?
I intend to finish him early and win by submission or TKO/KO.
What is your longterm goal in ONE Championship?
In general, I want to become the dominant champion in ONE.
What does it mean for you to represent Turkey?
I am very happy to represent my country, Turkey, at such a high level, in an organization like ONE.
