Mehrdad Khanzadeh preparing for intense battle at ONE Friday Fights 148: “Ready to go all out”

Mehrdad “Black Wolf” Khanzadeh is not coming to Bangkok on Friday night to survive a main event. The 24-year-old Iranian striker is coming to take one.

He faces Kongchai Chanaidonmueang in the strawweight Muay Thai main event of ONE Friday Fights 148 on Friday, March 27, live in Asia primetime from Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, with both men chasing the US$100,000 contract that comes with a standout performance.

The Sor Dechapan product has built his reputation on forward pressure and heavy hands, qualities that were on full display when he gutted through adversity in his most recent ONE appearance. Dropped at ONE Friday Fights 125, Khanzadeh came back to edge Kritpet PK Saenchai via split decision in a firefight that showcased both his toughness and composure. He sharpened his form further with a victory over a Moroccan opponent outside the promotion heading into this camp.

“I’m very happy to be back here again and ready to go all out,” Khanzadeh said.

“My confidence mainly comes from my belief in my training. I train very hard and focus on every detail with my teammates. Training and sparring regularly with skilled fighters in the gym has put my body in great condition. That allowed me to absorb the strikes and stay composed enough to come back.”

Khanzadeh identified Kongchai’s biggest weapon

Kongchai is no gatekeeper. The former Rajadamnern Stadium Muay Thai World Champion has more ONE Friday Fights appearances than any other athlete in the series, and his left kick has been a consistent problem for opponents throughout his promotional run. Khanzadeh has done the homework and believes his broader toolkit gives him the edge.

The outside win coming into this camp added confidence to a fighter who already arrives with plenty.

“Recently, I had a fight against a Moroccan opponent, and I won. That victory gave me a lot of energy and confidence. It made me feel hopeful and fully ready for this upcoming fight,” he said.

“I believe I’m more well-rounded than him, especially in terms of my punches and kicks. As for Kongchai, I think his main strength is his powerful left kick. I’m 100 percent confident. Thank you very much for the support, and I’ll see you in the ring.”