Marat Grigorian gained much respect for Rukiya Anpo after ONE 173 war: “He took some hard shots”

Armenian kickboxing icon Marat Grigorian and Japanese star Rukiya Anpo had built up lots of tension heading into their featherweight kickboxing showdown at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri at Ariake Arena on November 16.

But after an intense three-round war, Grigorian says he has gained a lot of respect for ‘Demolition Man.'

The 34-year-old former Glory kickboxing champion and ONE world title challenger told ONE Championship:

“His toughness definitely has my respect. Even though he came in heavier, he showed heart. Japanese athletes are known for that, and he proved it. He took some hard shots and kept trying. Respect to him.”

The two went back-and-forth on social media, building up real bad blood prior to their match, which was one of the most anticipated on a stacked 17-bout card in Tokyo, Japan.

Grigorian emerged victorious via unanimous decision following a three-round war with Anpo. But the Japanese star proved his toughness not only to Grigorian, but to the entire world watching.

ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri is available to North American fans via video-on-demand live.onefc.com.

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Marat Grigorian speaks on Rukiya Anpo missing weight

After Marat Grigorian’s victory over Rukiya Anpo at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri, the 34-year-old veteran addressed his decision to face the Japanese star even though the latter came in greatly overweight for their featherweight showdown.

Grigorian told the media at the ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri post-fight press conference:

“He had so much big chance, and he's missing the weight. Three kilos overweight, three kilos is a lot in our division, you know? But it's nothing for me. I give him a chance. I'm a real fighter. I don't want to let my friends behind to not fight, but I don't care about the weight class, you know? I’m just here to show a real fight and that's what I did.”