“He’s definitely helped a lot of fighters” - Aliff maintains respect for Prajanchai despite budding rivalry

Aliff Sor Dechapan may have an issue with the demeanor of ONE strawweight Muay Thai world champion Prajanchai PK Saenchai. He, however, maintains that he has a lot of respect for the Thai superstar for what he has done in paving the way for other fighters that came after him.

The Malaysian-Thai star has seen himself in an emerging rivalry with the PK Saenchai Muaythaigym standout in the strawweight lane, with the former up for a world title shot against the reigning divisional king.

Aliff shared his thoughts on Prajanchai in an interview with Sportskeeda MMA, underscoring that while the goal for him is to dethrone the reigning champ, he still views the Bangkok native with utmost respect.

The 21-year-old Team Sor Dechapan affiliate said:

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"So, although I do find him a bit arrogant, he’s probably still a nice guy. He’s definitely helped a lot of fighters. But I think him trying to be arrogant is his fight persona to let his opponents know that they don’t have an easy opponent to face."

Aliff earned a shot at the ONE strawweight Muay Thai world title after his dominant decision victory over Ramadan Ondash of Lebanon in his last match at ONE Fight Night 38: Andrade vs. Baatarkhuu on Dec. 5 in Thailand. The win extended his winning streak to five straight and improved his overall record in ONE Championship to 9-2.

North American fans can catch the replay of all the action at ONE Fight Night 38: Andrade vs. Baatarkhuu on demand via Amazon Prime Video.

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Aliff sends warning to Prajanchai in world title match

Aliff is highly determined to seize the ONE strawweight Muay Thai world title and warned Prajanchai about it.

The top strawweight contender made his intentions known immediately after scoring an impressive decision victory in his last match earlier this month, during the post-fight interview:

“Yes, I am confident that my next fight will be a title shot. You know, they also announced it in the ring, so I’m very confident, and if I still don’t get the title shot, I don’t know what to do then. Prajanchai, I hope you’re ready for me. I am coming for your belt.”

While the title clash between Prajanchai and Aliff has been confirmed, the date and venue are still to be determined.

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Edited by Aziel Karthak