‘Rely On My Timing’ – Sonrak Outlines Path To Victory Against ‘Aggressive’ Samingdam
The Fairtex athlete is confident he'll neutralize his foe's finishing power when they meet this Friday, August 8.
By Chris Mohan
Aug 7, 2025, 05:51 UTC
Myanmar striking sensation Sonrak Fairtex is well aware of the stupendous power that Samingdam NF Looksuan brings into their ONE Friday Fights 119 headline attraction.
But he’s ready for whatever storm that may come his way when the two exciting warriors cross paths in a 140-pound Muay Thai contest inside Bangkok’s legendary Lumpinee Stadium this Friday, August 8, live in Asia primetime.
This clash represents a significant opportunity for Sonrak, who wants to build momentum following his impressive unanimous decision victory over Petwichit Singha Mawynn this past June. He also wants to take another massive stride toward a US$100,000 contract and spot on ONE Championship’s main roster.
Though impressed by Samingdam’s finishing power, the Myanmar athlete believes his opponent’s lack of creativity when hunting for knockouts might work against him in their showdown.
Sonrak said:
“Samingdam is an aggressive fighter who just keeps coming forward and has a really tough body. But his weakness is that his weapons aren’t very diverse — he only has dangerous punches.
“If Samingdam thinks he can knock me out, he’s welcome to try. But he better be careful, because I might land a counter elbow on him, and who knows if he’ll be able to take it.”
Sonrak’s experience facing aggressive opponents throughout his career has taught him that patience often trumps power when executed with precision.
As such, the 24-year-old striker will pack a calculated approach rather than reckless aggression to what he sees as a rather predictable attacking pattern from his punch-heavy foe.
He continued:
“For the game plan, I’m sure Samingdam will come forward and hit me just like he said he would. I won’t dare to stand and trade with him directly because he’s a puncher.
“I’d be at a disadvantage if I go toe-to-toe with him. So I have to rely on my timing to counter with kicks and elbows when he comes to throw a punch at me.”
Though confident he’ll have his adversary’s number if he could sling in accurate counters, the youngster isn’t looking past Samingdam’s ability to withstand his artillery.
So, if his plan for a highlight-reel moment doesn’t materialize, the Fairtex representative is expecting a three-round firefight that should leave fans inside Lumpinee Stadium on the edge of their seats.
Sonrak said:
“I’m confident that if I can neutralize his punches, I can dominate the game.
“But I think there’s a high chance this fight will go the distance because we’re both durable. However, if someone makes a mistake and gets a clean hit, they could go down. You’ll just have to tune in and see.”
Co.,Ltd. (@photoeminency)Sonrak Honored To Headline ONE Friday Fights 119
After having his victorious five-fight winning streak halted at ONE Friday Fights 104, Sonrak Fairtex rebounded and wants to make it back-to-back wins. He also plans to leave a lasting impression in his first opportunity to headline the always-electric ONE Friday Fights.
For a fighter who has worked tirelessly to establish himself in the weekly series, headlining at Lumpinee Stadium represents the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice.
Sonrak said:
“I never thought I’d get to fight in a ONE [Friday Fights] main event. This is way beyond my expectations. I had a losing streak before and even thought I might never get to fight in this event again.
“So, to be here now, headlining this card, it really is a dream come true. I promise I won’t let ONE Championship down for giving me this chance. I’m gonna put on my best performance possible.”
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