“I’ve fought a lot of strong opponents” - Anissa Meksen insists Jackie Buntan’s power isn’t anything out of the ordinary
Anissa Meksen believes her previously-faced high-level opposition has prepared her to fight Jackie Buntan. At 36 years old, Meksen has established a lifetime kickboxing and Muay Thai record of 103-6.
The French-Algerian striker is also a former seven-time world champion between the two sports, making her arguably the most credentialed female fighter in ONE Championship history.
On Friday, Nov. 8, Meksen looks to capture a ONE world title for the first time, furthering her legacy as an all-time great. To do so, 'C18' must defeat Buntan for the inaugural women's strawweight kickboxing strap.
During an interview with Nick Atkin, Meksen had this to say about Buntan:
"I think she’s very strong. But you know, I’ve fought a lot of strong opponents, so for me, it’s just one more."
ONE 169 goes down inside the legendary Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. Friday's event featuring three world title fights, including Jackie Buntan vs. Anissa Meksen, can be seen live and for free by North American and Canadian viewers with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription.
Watch Meksen's entire interview with Atkin below:
Jackie Buntan must prove power will translate to bigger kickboxing gloves
Since joining ONE Championship, Jackie Buntan has focused on Muay Thai competition, leading to a 6-1 promotional record. At ONE 169, the American superstar has an opportunity to showcase her striking versatility by becoming a world champion despite an experience disadvantage.
As for Anissa Meksen, the 36-year-old has secured kickboxing world titles in other promotions. Furthermore, Meksen has fought in the sport twice in ONE against Cristina Morales (second-round knockout win) and Phetjeeja (unanimous decision defeat for the interim women's atomweight strap).
Buntan's biggest challenge will be overcoming the difference in glove size, which could reduce her power. ONE Championship uses four-ounce gloves for Muay Thai and eight-ounce gloves for kickboxing.
Nonetheless, Buntan has proven to have the heart and endurance to potentially defeat any opponent in ONE Championship. An intense battle should be expected at ONE 169, as Meksen doesn't plan on retiring without becoming a world champion in the home of martial arts.