“Mindset is more important” – Marat Grigorian says mental game a pivotal tool vs kickboxing elite

It is not just excellent striking abilities that make a fighter successful at the highest levels. Maintaining a clear head and strong mindset are also crucial, as emphasized by former two-time ONE featherweight kickboxing world title challenger Marat Grigorian in a recent statement.

Prior to his ONE interim featherweight kickboxing world title bout against Superbon, which will headline the ONE Friday Fights 58 event on April 5 at the historic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, Marat Grigorian sat down for an interview with Sportsmanor.

During the discussion, the Armenian superstar emphasized that having skills alone will not guarantee success in the top division. He stated,

“My body is ready, but [the only thing left] is to prepare for the mind, you know, in your head. On this level, it’s very important to get ready in your mind and your body. My body is very strong but I just need to be focused [in] my mindset, because mindset is more important on this level.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=null

The division’s second-ranked contender recently secured a third-round knockout victory over Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong at ONE 165 in January 2024, setting the stage for this highly anticipated trilogy with Superbon.

Marat Grigorian seeks redemption against Superbon to settle their rivalry once and for all

In March 2022, Marat Grigorian suffered a unanimous decision defeat against Superbon, resulting in a tied head-to-head record between them. This loss also ended Grigorian’s hopes of becoming the ONE featherweight kickboxing world champion.

Two years later, the representative from Hemmers Gym will have the opportunity to finally resolve their conflict with their Thai opponent and officially bring their rivalry to an end. Additionally, a victory would earn them a chance to compete in a unification fight against the reigning division champion, Chingiz Allazov.

ONE Friday Fights 58 will be airing on April 5 during primetime in Asia, and can be accessed on the ONE Super App, the official ONE Championship YouTube channel, and various other digital platforms. For further information, please consult your local listings.