Petchtanong Petchfergus is on a path to redemption, and he’s ready to take a major step in his next outing.

The Thai star faces Alaverdi “Babyface Killer” Ramazanov in a bantamweight kickboxing match on Friday, June 28th at ONE Friday Fights 68 inside the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand – in what should be a fascinating former World Champion versus former World Champion affair.

Petchtanong Petchfergus opens up on his suspension

Petchtanong was riding high after edging out Hiroki Akimoto by a split decision to win the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title at ONE 162 in November 2022. Unfortunately, he tested positive for a banned substance some weeks after the event, which caused him to be stripped of the belt and suspended for six months. 

Though he initially protested the decision, the 38-year-old told ONE in a recent interview that he eventually chose to push forward instead of wallowing in the past. 

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“The first feeling [when I learned I was suspended] was regret and devastation. I had just got the gold, right? But I would not let it overwhelm me. I tried hard to come back as soon as possible. I tried to review and learn from my mistakes until I could stand again,” Petchtanong said.  

“I try to look at it positively and always look at the good side. Because if you are overwhelmed with suffering, you will be stressed. So I have to keep calm, accept it, and move on.” 

Facing him on his return to action will be Ramazanov, who has also faced recent controversy in ONE Championship.

Petchfergus always wanted to fight Alaverdi

Following Jonathan Haggerty’s claim to the vacant bantamweight kickboxing strap at ONE Fight Night 16 last November, “Babyface Killer” jumped into the ring to confront him to call for his shot at gold. Instead, he was handed a suspension for his actions.

As a result, both men will be out to prove they are still worthy when they make their respective returns to ONE Championship this weekend. And Petchtanong is welcoming the challenge of facing an opponent as hungry and as skilled as Ramazanov.

“The moment I knew I was going to fight with Alaverdi, I was happy because I had always been waiting for the time that I could get back in the ring. I counted the days and months. In fact, I’ve actually been preparing for six months,” he said. 

“It’s my comeback fight. In my heart, there is only happiness and excitement. I want to show my best performance for everyone who comes to support me.”