Shumarov On Anpo Bout: All Or Nothing For Title Shot

Bogdan Shumarov believes constant pressure will be the key to beating Rukiya Anpo and earning a shot at ONE lightweight kickboxing gold.

The Bulgarian contender meets the Japanese striker at ONE SAMURAI 4 on October 17 inside Ariake Arena in Tokyo. Shumarov has won three of four ONE appearances, losing only a split decision to Rungrawee Sitsongpeenong. Anpo, a former K-1 Champion competing at lightweight kickboxing for the first time under ONE rules, dropped his promotional debut to Marat Grigorian at featherweight.

Shumarov Plans To Pressure Anpo In Tokyo

According to BJ Penn, Shumarov studied how Anpo handled forward momentum against Masaaki Noiri and Grigorian. Both fights showed vulnerabilities when opponents closed distance. "I think he doesn't like the pressure," Shumarov said. "I think he's not gonna take my pressure."

A victory could send Shumarov straight into a title fight with reigning champion Regian Eersel. The two were scheduled to meet roughly two years ago before an injury scrapped the bout. Anpo carries his own urgency, competing in front of a home crowd while making his divisional debut.

"He can be dangerous because, of course, for him it's all or nothing because his fight is also [in Japan]. He's in his home," Shumarov said, per the report. "But for me, the same. It's all or nothing because if I win, I [will probably] go for the title next, so I don't have a chance to lose."

ONE SAMURAI 4 takes place October 17 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Bogdan Shumarov calls ONE SAMURAI 4 all or nothing against Rukiya Anpo