Saiful Merican convinced experience will be a factor against 'Jordan Boy'

GETTING back into the thick of the action after two years on the sidelines could sound demanding.

However, Terengganu’s Saiful 'The Vampire' Merican is certain his martial arts experience can power him against Mohammed 'Jordan Boy' Mahmoud when the two clash in a Muay Thai bantamweight contest at ONE: MASTERS OF DESTINY on Friday, 12 July.

“I know I haven’t fought for close to two years, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t been practicing in the ring or at the gym,” the 30-year-old said.

“I’ve been fighting since 1998, and I’ve met a lot of opponents with various strategies along the way. That’s one thing we cannot run away from – my 20 years’ experience in the game.”

Saiful has undergone several diverse training camps throughout his martial arts journey and knows that he has crossed paths with someone like Mohammed before.

Despite his various advantages leading up to this bout, “The Vampire” is not taking his preparation lightly.

“I never underestimate my opponents. Whether they’re a young and inexperienced athlete or a veteran of the game, I always treat them the same,” he stated.

Saiful knows Mohammed will be very cautious of what he brings to the ring, as he has faced someone more experienced than him when he first started his Muay Thai career.

“‘Jordan Boy’ is a good athlete. He’s got great character and a good amount of skills. I know he’s young, hungry, and wants to always win,” he continued.

“I remember going up against a very experienced guy when I was very young. I was scared as heck. I know what he’ll go through when he walks down the ring on 12 July.

“He must control his nerves and keep calm. Once his mental game is checked, he can be a dangerous opponent.”

But Saiful has done his homework and knows there are various weak spots that he can exploit.

The Terengganu native intends to expose the holes in his game, but in case that doesn’t work, he has a couple of back-up plans in mind.

“I’ve studied a lot of his matches, and I know what his greatest attacking tools are,” he explained.

“I’ve got a lot of plans in my mind, and I’m sure 'Jordan Boy' has a couple, too. But sometimes it could go away, just like what Mike Tyson said, ‘Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face.'"