Entering the heavyweight division places significant expectations on competitors. For Shamil Erdogan, the upcoming contest against a formidable Japanese striker presents a chance, not a burden, especially when battling on his adversary’s turf.
Erdogan is slated to meet Ryugo Takeuchi in a heavyweight mixed martial arts match during ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri, scheduled for Sunday, November 16, at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. This marks the heavyweight debut for the 35-year-old Turkish athlete, who boasts a four-win streak after a successful tenure in the middleweight category.
Erdogan established his reputation within ONE Championship through a series of impressive victories. His first promotional appearance at ONE Friday Fights 22 in June 2023 saw him defeat Fan Rong, followed by consecutive wins against Myanmar’s revered Aung La N Sang, solidifying his status as a top-tier fighter.
Representing Kremost Fight Club, Erdogan is fresh off a quick 41-second technical knockout victory over Gilberto Galvao at ONE Fight Night 29 this past March. His unblemished 12-0 record showcases a history of dominance with minimal resistance throughout his career.
The transition to heavyweight presents new hurdles and potential matchups. The Turkish fighter has focused on building muscle through weight training while maintaining his established training regimen across various camps in Thailand. His drive to achieve championships across multiple weight classes is fueled by his family.
Takeuchi will be his first challenge at heavyweight. The 22-year-old Japanese fighter is known for his explosive power and aggressive fighting style, qualities that have led to highlight-reel finishes in regional competitions before he joined ONE’s elite ranks.
“I embrace challenges. I need to demonstrate my capabilities as a heavyweight among the elite fighters,” he stated.
“I have added muscle through weightlifting. Otherwise, my training continues as usual. I am conducting my training camp in Thailand—it has become my second home.”
Shamil Erdogan aims to capitalize on his rival’s impetuousness
Shamil Erdogan has thoroughly analyzed Ryugo Takeuchi’s combat style. The Turkish competitor believes that his rival’s assertive, forward-moving tactics provide opportunities for counterattacks.
Extensive experience is a significant asset at the highest levels of competition. Erdogan possesses a refined fighting acumen developed through years of competing against high-caliber opponents. Additionally, his proficiency in striking and wrestling offers him multiple avenues to secure a victory.
Takeuchi’s primary strengths lie in his knockout capability, combined with his youth and eagerness. However, attacking without careful planning can expose defensive weaknesses that seasoned fighters are adept at exploiting.
Erdogan finds inspiration in Anatoly Malykhin’s unprecedented accomplishment of winning titles in three divisions. Erdogan had previously defeated Malykhin in freestyle wrestling years before Malykhin’s success in capturing ONE titles at middleweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight.
“I recognize his youth and ambition. He is a skilled striker, and the local fans will strongly support him. His strength lies in his striking and knockout power, but I have identified strategies for victory in this fight, which I intend to implement,” he mentioned.
“He tends to be overly aggressive, rushing directly at his opponents. This is the aspect I plan to use against him. I am confident in my striking and wrestling abilities. I possess greater experience and a more advanced understanding of combat strategy.”
