Shamil Gasanov wants to rise to the top of ONE Championship’s featherweight division, and he understands his opponents won’t get any easier from here-on in. At ONE Fight Night 12: Superlek vs. Khalilov on July 14, the third-ranked contender battles former ONE World Title challenger Garry Tonon in a high-stakes bout. 

The event will go down live from the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, and will be broadcast live and for free to fans in North America via Prime Video.

Shamil Gasanov doesn’t want to underestimate Garry Tonon knowing his prowess

Gasanov knows the dangers of facing an opponent like Tonon, and he believes the margin for error will be slim to none. “Tonon should not be underestimated. Both of us are skilled grapplers, and we pose a threat until the final second of the fight,” he told ONE Championship.

“Maintaining focus is crucial as a single mistake can cost [someone] the victory. He is particularly dangerous with his leglocks.” Tonon owns a 7-1 mixed martial arts record in ONE, with his only loss coming in his World Title challenge of former divisional king Thanh Le last year. Six of his wins have come via finish, including his latest masterpiece against fellow American Johnny Nunez at ONE Fight Night 6 this past January.

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Meanwhile, “The Cobra” is undefeated in 13 professional bouts. He earned his spot in the divisional rankings by submitting former top-five contender Kim Jae Woong in just one round back at ONE on Prime Video 3 last October.

Shamil Gasanov’s better overall experience might turn out to be an advantage for him

The Russian contender has been watching Tonon and says he has a good grasp of what the American brings to the table. He believes his experience will give him an edge in their meeting on July 14 and asserts that his training partners have prepared him well.  

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“I have more experience in MMA than Garry. I’ve also competed in BJJ, grappling, and freestyle wrestling, so I believe we have an equal chance on the ground,” Gasanov said. “I do a lot of grappling with black belts and leglock specialists. I also have extensive wrestling sessions with freestyle wrestlers. I never approach a fight with just a defensive strategy. I’ll be launching my attacks from the opening seconds of our bout.”