Former ONE Welterweight MMA World Champion Zebaztian Kadestam will make his middleweight debut against retiring legend Aung La N Sang at ONE Fight Night 36: Prajanchai vs. Di Bella II on Friday, October 3, in Bangkok, Thailand.
Kadestam faces the unique challenge of being the final opponent for one of his closest friends in the sport. The 34-year-old Swedish striker has developed a friendship with the Myanmar icon over the years, built on mutual respect between two former champions who understand the demands of elite competition.
The personal relationship adds complexity to what will be Aung La N Sang's final professional contest. Kadestam acknowledges the emotional weight of the occasion while maintaining his focus on extending his three-fight winning streak to four victories.
"For this fight, everything has been going to plan. Weight, training, eating, and mental. I would say my condition is almost complete. I cannot wait, and I'm honored to be part of this important fight that will be Aung La N Sang's retirement fight," Kadestam said.
The Legacy Gym representative holds deep admiration for Aung La N Sang's accomplishments as Myanmar's first world champion in any sport and a former two-division titleholder in ONE Championship.
"We have been friends for quite a while now. But I'm a big fan of him, too. I think he's a great fighter, and he's done it all," Kadestam said. "Whether he is my opponent or not, respect goes beyond the stage. His achievements are up there, and that's why I'm excited for this fight against him."
Despite their friendship, Kadestam remains determined to spoil what many expect to be a celebratory farewell for the 40-year-old veteran. The Swedish fighter has finished all of his opponents in ONE Championship and believes his move to middleweight will enhance his already considerable striking power.
"I'm gonna be sticking to [my knockout power] in this fight against Aung La. It should be better. I've been waiting to be back in action, so I'm ready to show my strengthened striking in this fight," Kadestam said. "Of course, I'm always aiming for that knockout, but we will see what happens. But the goal is the knockout."
Kadestam expects Aung La N Sang to bring his best effort in his final performance, recognizing the danger that the Myanmar legend's 15 career knockouts represent.
"He's got good hands, a lot of knockout power for sure. But, I believe I do, too. When two knockout artists face one another, it means it will be a great fight," Kadestam said. "It's gonna be a great and explosive fight. Let's put on a show for the fans."
