"It ain't wrestling, we're in a fistfight" - Aung La N Sang downplays Shamil Erdogan's lofty wrestling credentials
Former two-division ONE world champion Aung La N Sang concedes that he'd be at a massive disadvantage against Shamil Erdogan if they ever fought in a straight-up wrestling match.
However, that won't be the case in less than 24 hours, when these two powerhouse athletes collide at ONE 168: Denver in a possible middleweight MMA world title eliminator.
Speaking to Nick Atkin during his pre-event interview, Aung La says he's not too worried about Erdogan's elite wrestling pedigree, considering he can return fire with some vicious strikes whenever his Turkish foe shoots.
'The Burmese Python' explained:
"I know he's a world medalist in wrestling. You know, he's a Dagestani guy, so he's gonna be tough. But it ain't wrestling, we're in a fistfight."
One thing we know about the battle-tested Aung La N Sang is he's never afraid to get his hands dirty.
The 39-year-old veteran will gladly match his unbeaten foe in a grinding match-up for the full three rounds.
However, if Erdogan makes the costly mistake of putting his guard down even for a second, we know the former middleweight and light heavyweight MMA kingpin has the power to stop this match on the feet and the ground.
ONE 168: Denver will take place this Friday, September 6, at Ball Arena. This historic event is free for Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.
Watch Aung La N Sang's full interview:
Aung La N Sang says he quickly moves on from the outcome of his matches
Win or lose, Aung La is not the type to dwell on his mistakes or be overly zealous of his triumphs.
After all, 'The Burmese Python' believes fighters are only as good as their next match. This bulletproof mentality has allowed Myanmar's hero to stay afloat all these years in the unforgiving nature of the fight game.
He told Cageside Press:
"I don't really dwell too much on past fights. Yes, I learn from it, but I don't really dwell on it too much."