Johan Estupinan: Rising Star in the Flyweight Muay Thai Arena
Johan Estupinan, currently ranked fifth among flyweight Muay Thai fighters, has rapidly made a name for himself with a series of impressive victories. His journey through the division has been marked by wins over talented contenders and emerging talents alike. Now, he prepares to face a seasoned veteran, aiming to set an example of resilience and skill.
Upcoming Showdown at ONE Fight Night 32
Known affectionately as the “Panda Kick,” Estupinan is set to clash with Japanese striking specialist Taiki Naito at ONE Fight Night 32. The highly anticipated bout is scheduled for this Friday, June 6, at Bangkok’s renowned Lumpinee Stadium, a historic venue celebrated for hosting elite Muay Thai contests.
Rapid Rise in ONE Championship
Since joining ONE Championship just over a year ago, Estupinan has compiled an extraordinary record of 27 wins without a loss. His tenure in the promotion has been particularly notable, with five victories, including three spectacular knockouts that have captivated fans worldwide.
Breaking Through with a Major Win
In his most recent appearance at ONE 170 in January, Estupinan faced fellow young contender Johan Ghazali. This bout represented a pivotal moment in his career, taking place on one of the sport’s biggest stages. Demonstrating his skill and determination, the Colombian fighter outperformed Ghazali over three rounds, cementing his position among the top five in the flyweight division.
The Challenge of Facing Naito
While Estupinan has experienced both triumphs and setbacks, his upcoming opponent, Taiki Naito, is no stranger to high-level competition. Known as the “Restful Assassin,” Naito has shared the ring with some of the sport’s best, including reigning champions and top contenders. His victories over fighters like Petchdam Petchyindee, Amir Naseri, and Rui Botelho highlight his versatility and skill.
At 29 years old, Naito’s extensive experience and proven track record make him arguably Estupinan’s most formidable challenge yet. His ability to adapt and his history of defeating elite opponents suggest that this fight could be a defining moment for both fighters.
Confidence and Strategy
Despite Naito’s impressive credentials, Estupinan remains confident. He is unfazed by the Japanese fighter’s reputation and intends to stick to his aggressive, signature style. His game plan is to press forward relentlessly, applying pressure and seeking opportunities to land decisive strikes.
“Naito kicks quickly, but he’s not a puncher like me who’s always hunting for the knockout. Instead, he tends to look for points,” Estupinan explained. “I hope he doesn’t run from me because I’ll have to chase him down like a lion stalking its prey. I want us to face each other head-on and give the fans the exciting fight they’re eager to see.”
Watch the Fight Live
For those interested in witnessing this electrifying matchup, the fight will be streamed live on YouTube. Don’t miss the chance to see two top-tier fighters clash in what promises to be a memorable encounter.
