Now, at ONE Fight Night 36 on October 3, the Thai veteran faces the uncomfortable reality of becoming someone else’s stepping stone, and he’s determined to prevent it.
This is the cruel mathematics of the fight game. Ortikov needs Kongthoranee’s ranking to establish credibility. The undefeated Uzbek specifically requested this matchup because quality wins over ranked opponents create opportunities. For the 22-year-old phenom with a 22-0 record, this represents the perfect validation fight.
But Kongthoranee understands the stakes too well to cooperate with that narrative. His own climb from obscurity taught him that rankings aren’t given. They’re defended against exactly the type of hungry prospect now threatening his position.
“I used to watch Aslamjon fight, and I was surprised by his performance,” Kongthoranee said.
“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.”
The respect is genuine, but it doesn’t change the approach.
Kongthoranee’s experience against elite competition, including battles with Nong-O Hama and Superlek Kiatmoo9, has taught him how to survive explosive opponents. His calculated style exists specifically to neutralize the type of attacks that Ortikov brings.
“His strikes are powerful. He’s knocked out four of his opponents,” he said.
“But I believe I can handle his power. I’m confident I can take his hardest shots.”
That confidence stems from systematic preparation alongside ONE World Champions at PK Saenchai Muaythaigym. Training with Tawanchai and Prajanchai has sharpened his defensive tactics while providing daily exposure to championship-level power. If he can survive their attacks in training, he believes Ortikov’s power won’t overwhelm him.
Ortikov, on the other hand, carries the confidence that only comes from never tasting defeat. His request to face Kongthoranee rather than easier matchups reveals an athlete who believes his style creates problems that experience can’t solve — and he’s looking to prove it this weekend.
“He is really strong. He has good timing,” Ortikov said.
“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.”
