In August, ONE Championship signed Roberto Soldic – a former two-division KSW Champion and the most sought-after free agent in all of MMA. This Friday at ONE on Prime Video 5, the Croatian sensation will make his highly anticipated promotional debut when he takes on undefeated Dagestani destroyer Murad Ramazanov.

In many ways, Ramazanov represents the stiffest possible test for Soldic’s ONE Championship debut, outside of an immediate shot at two-division king Christian Lee’s ONE Welterweight World Title.

Roberto Soldic intends to match Ramazanov’s grappling with his dangerous striking

“Robocop” says he respects the Russian’s unblemished record, but he is nonetheless filled with confidence ahead of this high-stakes showdown at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines.

“I’m southpaw, I’m a very dangerous guy, and it’s not going be easy for him,” he warned. Training alongside retired MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, Ramazanov has made a name for himself as one of the sport’s most dominant grapplers and takedown artists.

READ MORE – Roberto Soldic Warns Murad Ramazanov Prior to His Debut at One on Prime Video 5. He Would Be Hunting for a Win in Whichever Way Possible.

Soldic, on the other hand, has scored 17 spectacular knockouts across 20 professional victories, establishing himself as an elite striker capable of ending a fight at any moment. Given that background, one might be quick to assume that Ramazanov holds the wrestling edge over the Croatian.

Roberto Soldic packs his strong grappling as a surprise for Murad Ramazanov

Not so fast, says “Robocop.” According to him, the Russian will be surprised by just how strong his grappling and takedown game truly is.

“He’s good on the wrestling, really good control, like every Dagestan fighter, good single-leg, switch to body lock, good conditioning,” Soldic conceded. 

“But when I go in the cage, it will be different. Nobody feels my wrestling and power, and when they go in the cage and then they see it, you cannot see this on the video. But when you stay here in the cage with me, I really give problems and if you don’t watch out, it will be quick. I believe in myself and, what I can say? It’s a very tough opponent for me, and I like this. I cannot wait for the fight.”