"Neither of them threw a kick" - Liam Harrison believes the aggressive 'Muay Mat' style is perfect in four-ounce gloves
The career of Liam Harrison has been able to transcend multiple generations of Muay Thai striking thanks to his longevity.
He has walked down paths that were previously empty, achieved a lot, and is now approaching the end of a storied career.
During his time in ONE Championship, 'The Hitman' has watched as the addition of four-ounce gloves and an emphasis on action has changed the striking world.
The days of being reactionary to an opponent and fighting at a slower pace are no longer as relevant or prominent. Instead, fighters tend to apply a 'Muay Mat' style, where boxing combinations and aggression are key to getting your hand raised.
During a recent appearance on The FullerWatt Podcast, Harrison used two of the best active strikers in the world as his reference point for this:
"Let's look at two of the most vicious and top-level fighters on ONE at the minute - number one, [Jonathan] Haggerty, and number two, Nico [Carillo]. Neither of them threw a kick in their last two fights. It was all boxing. That's what it was."
Harrison continued, adding that this change in style has become the defining factor in the sport:
"So, that's why a lot of the fights do come down to who is going to have the hardest punch, who is going to be able to let our hands go, who's going to land first, you know what I mean?"
Watch the full podcast interview below:
Liam Harrison always brings the action
Fortunately for Liam Harrison, this approach is something that he's been able to adapt to fairly seamlessly.
He's always had strong boxing skills and punching power to go with his kicks, which can't be said for everyone.
Whilst his days of competing at the highest level are now behind him, Harrison still has some more gas in the tank left to burn.
He returns for what could be the final time in a clash of legends with Seksan Or Kwanmuang on September 6.
Tickets for ONE 168: Denver are available via Ticketmaster.