Top ONE kickboxing bantamweight had harsh words for the former K-1 champion ahead of their clash at . In an interview with the Bangkok Post, the Dagestani-Russian striker has this criticism for the Karateka:
“A stupid, straightforward fighter that the Japanese have made a star out of in Japan. I will prove that he is just one more step towards my world title.”
“He is already barking at all the champions and fighters of the league – I will teach him politeness.”
“I don’t see anything supernatural about Yoza – this is ONE Championship, man.