Martin Nguyen plotting another successful world title defence in Manila

On Friday, 2 August, the Vietnamese-Australian martial artist puts his ONE Featherweight World Title on the line against Japan’s Koyomi 'Moushigo' Matsushima at ONE: DAWN OF HEROES in Manila, Philippines.

Nguyen has had a successful training camp at HardKnocks 365 in Florida, United States, and he will leave with nothing but a win inside the Mall of Asia Arena.

“First and foremost, congratulations to Matsushima for earning his shot. I think he is a great fighter who has proved himself with the best,” he said. “I have been given the right amount of time to prepare for Matsushima, and I have faith in my coaches and training partners to get me over the line.”

It will be up to Nguyen, though, to implement his game plan and take Matsushima out.

Nguyen’s last appearance at The Home of Martial Arts was a highlight-reel affair.

Nguyen made his comeback to the ONE Circle after more than nine months on the sidelines, stinging his Mongolian opponent Narantungalag “Tungaa” Jadambaa with a flying knee.

The win marked his first finish since he captured the ONE Lightweight World Title in November 2017 against Eduard Folayang.

“Having some time off (with the injury) made me reflect, and it made me hungrier,” Nguyen said. “It also motivated me to push myself beyond setbacks and come back with a victory (over Jadambaa).”

“Knowing that I am now injury-free, I want to try and push out at least one more fight after this one to end the year on a high,” he added.

“The Situ-Asian” revealed that he’s also done extensive research on his adversary ahead of their meeting.

Nguyen praised the Pancrase ISM Yokohama athlete’s wrestling, but has taken note of some gaps in his style.

“He has really good wrestling. His striking is decent as well, but it is very reckless," Nguyen said.

“Both our styles are very similar. We have great movement and power to counter, so come fight night, the fans should be expecting a great tactical battle full of fireworks and action.”