“That’s what I like” - John Lineker predicts another trademark KO in Muay Thai debut against Asa Ten Pow at ONE 168
John Lineker plans to add another highlight-reel knockout to his resume at ONE 168: Denver.
Over the last five years, Lineker has tormented the ONE bantamweight MMA division with his vicious knockout power.
The former world champion now looks to test himself in another sport, as he's scheduled to face Asa Ten Pow in an intriguing Muay Thai matchup on September 6 at ONE 168.
Lineker recently did an interview with ONE to discuss his upcoming promotional Muay Thai debut. 'Hands of Stone' had this to say about his general prediction:
“I see myself knocking out Asa Ten Pow because that’s what I like and that’s what I do when I step into the cage.”
John Lineker has fought under the ONE Championship banner eight times, not counting his no-contest against Fabricio Andrade. The hard-hitting Brazilian holds a 6-2 promotional record, with four wins by knockout.
In February 2023, Lineker lost his opportunity to regain the ONE bantamweight MMA world title against Andrade.
Since then, he's bounced back in the division with consecutive wins against top contenders - Kim Jae Woong (third-round knockout) and Stephen Loman (unanimous decision).
Lineker's latest fight was an openweight bout against Shinya Aoki in January. 'Hands of Stone' accepted the matchup on a few hours' notice due to a last-second cancellation, leading to Aoki submitting him in round one.
Asa Ten Pow plans to extend impressive run by taking out John Lineker
Asa Ten Pow started his ONE Championship tenure with a first-round knockout loss against Mehdi Zatout.
The American Muay Thai fighter silenced the doubters in his last two fights, as he secured third-round knockout wins in entertaining battles against Han Zi Hao and Rambolek.
At ONE 168, Ten Pow has a massive opportunity to add a legendary name to his resume and extend his impressive run. John Lineker's lack of Muay Thai experience shouldn't overshadow his devastating power in four-ounce gloves, which could be a problem for 'The American Ninja.'
ONE 168 will air live from the Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. Tickets for the must-see event on September 6 can be found on Ticketmaster.