After an 18-month hiatus due to an ACL injury, Lito Adiwang is set to return to active competition against Adrian Mattheis at ONE Friday Fights 34 on September 22.
This comeback bid holds great significance for Adiwang, who believes he has found the “perfect” opponent to send a resounding message that he remains an elite competitor in the strawweight division.
“I can say he’s perfect for me because he’s been beating former top contenders and even former champ Alex Silva. Plus, he’s extremely active in the fight game,” the 26-year-old Baguio City native told Tiebreaker Times.
The Indonesian’s dynamic fighting style is well-acknowledged by “Thunder Kid,” emphasizing the need to approach this match with utmost focus.
“His explosive power, that’s what I’m mostly keeping an eye on because we all saw what happened in his fight with Alex Silva. He was being controlled by Alex and then suddenly he knocked out Alex,” Adiwang said.
“Even in his previous fights, I’ve scouted out that aspect of his fight style. He swings very wildly. That’s something I’m keeping a close watch on.”
Adiwang is under no illusion about the challenge that lies ahead, acknowledging that overlooking Mattheis could be a costly mistake.
“His fighting spirit is something I admire, and I think Mattheis is the type of opponent I need to face right now,” he mentioned.
“We know he’s a dangerous opponent and he’s not a fighter to overlook at any time. I love the challenge that he presents in order to really bring out the best fighter in me.”
When asked about his expectations for the upcoming tiff with Mattheis, Adiwang paints a vivid picture.
He envisions a fast-paced, hard-hitting encounter, one that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
“I visualize the fight to be explosive and exciting from the get-go. It’s going to be an all-out war of punches and kicks, I believe. We’ll see who’s the better striker and more complete fighter between us,” Adiwang stated.
For Adiwang, ONE Friday Fights 34 is not just about getting back into action; it’s about making a statement.
“I’ll do my best to get an impressive win in my return. That’s what I’m really aiming for. I’ll do my best to give an impressive win to show that I’m still here,” he declared.
