ONE Fight Night 18: Oh Ho Taek Plans To “Persistently Grapple” With Submission Ace Shamil Gasanov

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When Shamil Gasanov needed an opponent, many stepped aside. But not Oh Ho Taek. This was an opportunity for the South Korean finisher to test his skills against the very best and possibly break into the division's elite.

"Spider" meets #4-ranked featherweight MMA contender Gasanov in the main event of ONE Fight Night 18 this Saturday, 13 January, in Bangkok, Thailand's Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.

Both men hold strong submission skills. In fact, that's one of the reasons why Oh accepted the Russian's challenge. He boasts five submission wins in 10 outings, and Gasanov has nine to his name out of 13 victories. With that, Oh is excited to test his game against Gasanov.

"Although I'm an all-rounder, in this match I want to see who's better at grappling, which is Gasanov's strength," Oh said.

"I'll want to take it to the ground once my body warms up, and I'd like to see who's better there. I'll persistently grapple to see who's better until the end."

Despite the pair's grappling skills, Oh has been able to show off one thing that Gasanov hasn't - knockout power. "Spider" has two wins by knockout on his record, arguably making him the more well-rounded fighter of the two this weekend.

Oh has also done his homework on the #4-ranked contender. Comparing the Russian's striking abilities to his, Oh believes his talent on the feet will make the difference. He expects to knock "The Cobra" off his place in the featherweight MMA rankings.

"He's strong and known as a wrestling grappler. I think his striking is still lacking. It seems like grappling is all he'll have for this match," Oh said.

"He'll probably push with his strong wrestling right from the start. I plan to counter him. I'll be looking for a finish, but I'm also considering a decision since MMA has many variables."