His legacy speaks for itself. He’s a dual-division ONE MMA world champion, has 30 victories, and has a 93 percent finishing rate across 20 years of elite competition. He transformed Myanmar combat sports by proving his country could produce world-class champions, opening doors for an entire generation of fighters who followed.
Now he gets to write the final paragraph against someone who understands exactly what this moment means. Kadestam isn’t just another opponent. He’s a friend, a fellow former champion, and someone equally committed to delivering the spectacle that honors their shared history.
“He’s a good guy. I really like him, and I know he’s very good,” he said.
“And it will be a fun fight for the fans, right? We’re gonna bang, and we’re gonna put on a show.”
The friendship creates unique dynamics. These aren’t competitors who need manufactured animosity to generate intensity. Their mutual respect guarantees complete professional dedication to victory, making the fight more authentic rather than less.
Kadestam brings serious credentials to this farewell. His 93 percent finishing rate matches Aung La N Sang’s perfectly, while his three-fight winning streak includes a highlight-reel knockout of two-division KSW champion Roberto Soldic. The Swedish striker’s move to middleweight should enhance power that was already dangerous at welterweight.
But Aung La N Sang sees the size difference as his advantage. His confidence isn’t arrogance. It’s tactical assessment from someone who has felt the difference firsthand.
“I’m gonna hit a lot harder than a welterweight, that’s for sure. My bones are harder than a welterweight,” Aung La said.
The tactical matchup favors pure striking. Both athletes prefer standing exchanges, and neither possesses glaring weaknesses that force tactical caution. Aung La N Sang acknowledges Kadestam’s grappling represents a potential vulnerability, but immediately dismisses it as irrelevant to their intended approach.
This creates the perfect storm for finishing sequences. When two athletes with 93 percent finishing rates agree to stand and trade, the mathematical probabilities shift dramatically toward early stoppages. Both possess knockout power, defensive discipline, and the experience to capitalize on momentary openings.
For Aung La N Sang, the retirement stakes add emotional weight without creating pressure. He’s at peace with his decision, satisfied with his legacy, and focused on delivering one final performance worthy of his pedigree. That mental clarity often produces the most dangerous version of elite athletes.
“Someone on the floor, that’s the only way [it can end],” he said.
“That’s the only way we can honor our friendship and honor each other as fighters, as warriors.”
