Anatoly Malekhin he was calling Arjan Bhullar The entire time he was there for approx ONE Championship. Although the previous meetings have failed, the two heavyweights will collide on June 23. At ONE Friday Fights 22, ONE will have one undisputed heavyweight champion.
“I felt certain I was going to become the world heavyweight champion, and I think I already am. However, there was a bit of technique left – this fight with Bhullar. I was happy to see his name on the contract when he was sent. He had already signed contracts three or four times and didn’t show up. In a fight. So, we’ll see what happens this time. The important thing is that he makes an effort to get straight into the ring.” Malekhin told ONE.
But Malykhin already feels that he is the undisputed king. He’s ready to defend the title against anyone, and Singh is just his final threat. Bhullar hasn’t defended gold since winning the ONE World Heavyweight Title Brandon Vera in 2021. At the time, Malykhin had only two knockout victories on his way to becoming the interim light heavyweight and world heavyweight champion.
“I think a guy who doesn’t fight and has been holding up the entire division for over two years is not a champion. He shouldn’t be fighting in any league whatsoever. In general, I don’t care what name is on the contract – whether it’s Bhullar or ‘Buchecha’. I’m happy to fight against him. Any opponent, and I would be glad to have another opportunity to show my skills to the public, [but] “I hope you can start the battle this time,” said the interim hero.
The match will tell the world a lot about both men. Bhullar has many questions to answer after two years away from the competition, but Malykhin can also silence any remaining skeptics. There is a deeper meaning in the inclination of the address, and Malykhin expects a categorical response to the call.
If Malykhin wants to give his fans any expectations, it’s that they won’t last a long night. The Russian star does not think about his prediction for the unification match. “Sladky” sees an early night in Bangkok pay off.
“He has no chance at all. I’m just going to knock him out. He’ll last until the second round at most. There’s no chance for him to last for five rounds,” the Russian claimed.
This bold prediction is exactly why the King of Two Divisions believes all fans should tune in to watch ONE Friday Fights 22. The Russian knows the series has already delivered a parade of memorable knockouts, and he’s ready to add to his highlight reel. Malykhin is ready to make history at a stacked event on Friday morning.
“I always aim for the knockout. I always try to be faster than my opponents and put on a good show. I have to do my best so that the crowd can enjoy those moments. My fight with Bhullar is worth watching just because I’m going to knock him out. Everyone loves knockouts, when Adult falls – beautiful”.
ONE Friday Fights 22 will be broadcast live from Lumpinee Boxing Stadium on June 23. The event starts at 8:30 AM ET / 5:30 AM PT. The event will be broadcast free of charge ONE’s official YouTube channel.