“That’s what I live for” - Marat Grigorian relishes opportunity to face another massive opponent on the global stage at ONE 173

Three-time kickboxing world champion Marat Grigorian of Armenia lives for the biggest challenges.

The 34-year-old veteran simply thrives when the spotlight shines brightest, something he’d like to prove once more at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri.

This Sunday, November 16, Grigorian will battle it out with hometown bet Rukiya Anpo inside the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

While some fighters crumble under pressure, Grigorian embraces it. The Hemmers Gym product will go down as one of the best strikers once it’s all said and done after exhibiting his greatness for nearly two decades.

In ONE Championship, Grigorian has continued that trail of excellence, displaying that menacing signature forward pressure that made him an all-time great.

Plus, he’s extremely motivated to silence Anpo after the promotional newcomer dismissed his credentials.

The former ONE featherweight kickboxing world title challenger told Sportskeeda MMA in an exclusive interview:

"I'm pumped. Big stage, big fight - that's what I live for. This is where I shine. I cannot wait to fight in Tokyo and make a statement. This is my chance to shut this guy up."

For Anpo, there’s no better way to deliver a statement than by emerging victorious in the biggest martial arts event of the year.

Don't miss this pivotal featherweight kickboxing war - purchase the ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri PPV here.

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Marat Grigorian says he chose career over starting a family

Marat Grigorian always put his career first, a sacrifice he deemed necessary to achieve his goals and ambitions.

The Armenian legend admits it does get lonely at times, but insists he made the correct choice. He told ONE:

"I'm also at my strongest when I'm really alone. But there's always that feeling of something just missing in my life. I already have all the love I need in my life. I have a loving family, sisters, three nephews, and I'm an uncle.

The Hemmers Gym standout added:

"But that feeling is always there when I see other families or all my friends who are already married and have children. That makes me feel like I'm even more lonely."