ONE Championship veteran Mehdi Zatout was happy to focus on being a successful coach after calling time on his fighting career, but the thrill of competition convinced him to return to the spotlight.

As such, “Diamond Heart” will compete in a boxing match against undefeated star Zuhayr Al-Qathani at ONE 166: Qatar – ONE’s first live event in Qatar – on Friday, March 1, with all the action set to be broadcast live and free on Prime Video subscribers across North America.

Mehdi Zatout reveals the emotions he felt upon finding out the event location for ONE 166

The monumental spectacle was so significant and close to home for Zatout that it sparked his interest right away. But he didn’t envision taking part in it.

“To me, it’s amazing. When they announced it, I immediately informed my fighters [at Venum Training Camp] about it. But I never thought that I would be the one competing. It’s crazy that ONE will be in Qatar. To be part of ONE 166 is a dream for me. Knowing it’s an Arabic country, it’s also special for me,” he told ONE in an interview.

The Algerian star has competed in 120 Muay Thai and kickboxing bouts, but he hasn’t been seen in ONE Championship since his brilliant first-round knockout victory over Asa Ten Pow at ONE on Prime Video 3 in October 2022.

That win earned him a US$50,000 performance bonus, and he saw it as a perfect opportunity to retire and leave the game on top. Since then, he has been busy developing Team Mehdi Zatout in the Venum Training Center and helping its fighters rack up wins in the world’s largest martial arts organization.

Also Read: Motivated by Historic ONE 166 Card in Qatar, Arjan Bhullar Ready to Move Past Devastating Loss in His Last Fight

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Zatout gives an insight into his retirement and re-signing with ONE Championship

It was the perfect way to spend his post-fighting career. But when the opportunity to add a boxing match to his decorated resume arose, the 40-year-old striker couldn’t refuse. His lengthy career may have taken a toll on his body, but Zatout has stayed fighting fit and was ready to enter fight camp on short notice.

“I retired because I had problems with my knees, and there was so much work. I’d just had enough. I decided to come back because I like the challenge,” he said.

“I’m happy that Chatri [Sityodtong] and ONE offered me the fight. Despite retiring, I’ve kept myself in shape and continued to spar with all of my fighters on the team. So, why not?”

How do you think that Mehdi Zatout will fare in his return to the ONE Championship cage? Do you think that his layoff would hamper his performance? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.

Also Read: 40 Year Old Mehdi Zatout Puts His Gloves Back on for Zuhayr Al-Qahtani at ONE 166