Kingdom Fight Gym’s Kong Sambo made his ONE Championship debut at ONE: CALL TO GREATNESS in Singapore when he took on the well-renowned Chinese kickboxer Zhang Chenglong.
Despite losing by split decision after three hard-fought rounds, Sambo showed great composure as he for the first time competed abroad and in front of a sold-out arena.
“I feel a bit split about my performance,” Sambo explains.
“On one side I’m not very satisfied because I know I could have done much better, but on the other hand, I am also proud.”
“I did not do too bad for my first big fight in a new martial arts division.”
This Thursday, the young talent is looking to get back to his winning ways as he is set to compete in a Kun Khmer bout at the inaugural opening of a new stadium in Siem Reap.
Yes, that’s right, I’ll be fighting Ti Punlaet,” Sambo confirms.
“After looking back at my fight in Singapore, I’m focusing more on my punches and elbows.”
“My legs are strong but my arms are still my weakness, and I’m changing that now.”
“In my first fight with ONE, I didn’t show what I can do, but like everything, it’s an experience, and I’ve learned so much from it.”
Not knowing when another opportunity from ONE Championship might surface, Sambo aims to continue sharpening his skills in the ring and wants to stay very active on the local scene.
“I want to fight two times a month for the upcoming months, against Khmer and Thais,” Sambo states.
“While working on my overall skills and speed and being able to show how I’ve adapted, I might be at a level in 4-5 months where ONE would consider me again.”
Despite the setback in ONE Championship, Kingdom Fight Gym has had a successful first year as the Siem Reap based team has been able to make K1 legend Ernesto Hoost and ONE Championship star Andy Souwer their ambassadors.
Inspired by his team and the many opportunities ahead, Sambo feels confident about his future and his upcoming bout.
“I think it won’t be an easy fight as Ti has a lot of experience and is a good fighter,” he states.
“I’ve been watching his fights and know where my chances are, and I’m positive about winning this fight on Thursday.”
“It will definitely be a cool and quality fight that no one should miss!”
Khmer Komlang 