Undefeated Canadian atomweight contender Anastasia Nikolakakos has firmly established herself as a top challenger for the vacant ONE women's atomweight MMA world championship. Her momentum follows a grueling split-decision victory over Malaysia's Jihin Radzuan at ONE Fight Night 45, held on Friday, July 17, in Bangkok.
Reflecting on her aspirations, the Toronto native expressed her singular focus on securing the division's top prize. "It doesn't matter who else I have to face, or whoever's next. God willing, we'd win, and we'd get that belt. That's why everybody's here on this platform. Everybody is here for one reason: to be the best," Nikolakakos stated following her latest win. She emphasized that she does not expect the path to the championship to be easy and remains prepared for any opponent standing in her way, noting, "I believe I'm next in line, and whoever it is, I will try my best to get that belt."
Despite her dominant 7-0 record, Nikolakakos maintained a refreshingly candid stance regarding her preparation for the bout against Radzuan. She admitted to having limited knowledge of her opponent before entering the cage, preferring to rely on her coaching staff for tactical analysis rather than focusing on the background of her foes. "I don't pay much attention to anybody else, to be honest. I didn't even know her name going into this, and that's the truth. Because I don't focus on anybody. I just stay focused on myself, and whatever my coaches tell me. They do the studying, and I just go," she explained. Regarding the fight itself, she noted that Radzuan’s stand-up ability and movement were expected, and she remained unfazed by the challenge.
For those interested in viewing the full event, the replay of ONE Fight Night 45 is currently available on demand for Prime Video subscribers in the United States and Canada.
View this post on Instagram Instagram PostShe continued:"So I don't expect anything to be easy, and neither should the opponents, whoever they may be.
