“That means that’s all, right?” - Rukiya Anpo says Marat Grigorian is done for after two failed world title bids

Rukiya Anpo (R) vs Marat Grigorian (L) | Image credit: ONE Championship
Rukiya Anpo (right) vs. Marat Grigorian (left) [Image courtesy: ONE Championship]

'Demolition Man' Rukiya Anpo of Japan believes Marat Grigorian’s time has passed, and it’s time for new blood to take over.

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The former three-time K-1 Champion will battle the Armenian striking icon in the blockbuster ONE 173 megaevent at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan, on Nov. 16.

For the promotional debutant Anpo, this match will present a classic changing of the guard in the stacked ONE featherweight kickboxing division.

After all, Grigorian already challenged for the belt twice against the reigning world champion Superbon and came out empty-handed on both occasions.

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Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda MMA, Anpo confidently claimed he’ll stop the decorated veteran on his tracks:

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"I recognize Marat's career. I respect him and I know he is a strong fighter. But you know what? Marat fought for the title twice but he did not get the title. So that means that's all, right?"

Grigorian is a three-time Glory Kickboxing world champion and has practically won gold everywhere he has gone. However, the Hemmers Gym standout has struck out in the world’s largest martial arts organization.

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For Anpo, those two title fight losses prove the 34-year-old has reached his ceiling. The Japanese star is out to prove this point at ONE 173.

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Rukiya Anpo won't demand a title shot if he beats Marat Grigorian

Defeating a former two-time featherweight kickboxing world title challenger will be massive for Rukiya Anpo.

Then again, he's going to respect the pecking order of the stacked 155-pound ranks and won't force the issue in terms of a possible world title opportunity.

The Japanese striker told ONE Championship:

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"That's something that ONE Championship or the fans will decide. I will not ask for a title fight immediately. Whatever ONE Championship thinks, I will accept. I will just beat whoever is in front of me."

Keep up with Sportskeeda and ONE Championship for updates on this heated featherweight kickboxing clash.

Follow One Championship News, Schedule & Results at Sportskeeda.

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Edited by Aziel Karthak
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