Anar Mammadov aiming for bounce-back victory at The Inner Circle 18 main event

Anar Mammadov has watched his loss to Yodlekpet many times. His conclusion has not changed. He was ahead until the knockdown shifted the judges. One moment reshaped the result. He wants to show what happens when that moment does not come.

Mammadov faces Tomyamkoong Bhumjaithai in the flyweight Muay Thai main event of The Inner Circle, streaming live for members at live.onefc.com from Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Friday, June 12. The 30-year-old Team Mehdi Zatout striker from Azerbaijan carries a 12-4 professional record into the contest. His debut knockout of Komawut FA Group announced him immediately. The Yodlekpet loss followed. Since then, Mammadov returned home to Azerbaijan, spent time with his family, and came back to Thailand leaner, sharper, and convinced that Tomyamkoong’s game can be solved with the right approach.

Mammadov has done his homework. Tomyamkoong’s footwork is good. His knees are a genuine weapon. His clinch is strong. None of that has rattled the Azerbaijani’s confidence. He and his coach have a program built around it.

“Although I lost, I must say it was a great fight against Yodlekpet. It was such an experience. It was a very tough match. But I’m ready for a new challenge,” he said.

“He has really good footwork, he has good knees, and he’s very solid in the clinch. But that’s why I’ve prepared a program with my coach. I hope it’s going to work out.”

Anar Mammadov targeting fast finish and Yodlekpet rematch

Anar Mammadov is not in Bangkok simply to test himself. He wants the finish. He wants the contract that follows. And beyond June 12, he wants the rematch with Yodlekpet that has been on his mind since the night it slipped away.

Both goals depend on the same thing: landing the shots that matter before Tomyamkoong can turn the fight into a clinch-heavy exchange. Mammadov’s boxing is the tool he trusts most. He plans to use it before his opponent can neutralize the range.

“I know that it’s going to be hard to beat him in the clinch. But, actually, if he tries to get close to me and clinch, I’m going to punch him. I’m going to beat him. If I’m able to land good shots, I might even knock him out,” he said.

“If ONE Championship is okay with [a rematch], I want that rematch. I think that match was very close. I was dominating the fight until the knockdown.”