Exza Wankhongohm On Gonzalez Debut Strategy

Thai prospect Exza Wankhongohm has mapped out a kick-heavy game plan for his ONE Championship debut against Spanish knockout artist Xavier Gonzalez on October 30.

The 23-year-old enters The Inner Circle 36 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok with a 60-15 record and no intention of standing in the pocket with a fighter who has stopped four opponents in his last seven ONE appearances. Gonzalez most recently dropped a narrow split decision to Thway Lin Htet after back-to-back finishes of Payaksurin JP Power and Chatanan Apichat Muaythai, per BJ Penn dot com.

Speed And Low Kicks Over Power Punching

Wankhongohm believes his footwork and kicking game will neutralize the Spaniard's boxing. "I know Xavier quite well. He's a tough fighter, but I don't think he has the tools to knock me out," Wankhongohm said, according to the report. "Compared to me, Xavier is relatively slow. My style relies heavily on aggressive low kicks."

The Thai fighter said he will use lateral angles rather than exchange directly with Gonzalez, whose power comes alive in close-range brawls. The bout marks Wankhongohm's first three-round contest in 4-ounce gloves after 75 career fights on the regional circuit. He said he is ready for the smaller gloves and the faster pace they bring.

A strong showing could put Wankhongohm on track for a six-figure contract with the promotion. The Inner Circle 36 streams live Friday in Asia primetime exclusively for members.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Exza Wankhongohm outlines path to victory against Xavier Gonzalez in ONE Championship debut