Jonathan Di Bella is gearing up for a thrilling matchup at ONE Fight Night 26, where he will face Rui Botelho in a high-stakes kickboxing clash at the legendary Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on December 6. As a former ONE strawweight kickboxing champion, Di Bella is confident in his ability to adapt to any opponent’s style, whether it’s counter-punching or brawling. Speaking to Sportskeeda MMA, he said:
“I could be a counter-puncher, I could be a brawler, I could do all of them. So it depends on the night which one comes out. I think that styles make fights, and this fight has a good stylistic match for the fans. The fans are going to win this fight.”
Di Bella’s return to the Mecca of Muay Thai comes after a tough loss to current two-sport champion Prajanchai PK Saenchai, and he’s eager to bounce back. He feels that his versatility in striking will make him a tough opponent for anyone who steps into the ring with him.
Rui Botelho’s Ambitious Pursuit of a Career-Best Win
Botelho enters this fight on a two-bout win streak, having achieved impressive victories in his last outings. He shocked many with a win over Zhang Peimian at ONE Fight Night 16, and followed that up by claiming his first Muay Thai victory under the ONE banner against Thongpoon PK Saenchai at ONE Fight Night 25. Now, Botelho is setting his sights on a former champion, hoping to extend his streak and make a statement in the division.
His performance in the last two bouts has been widely praised, and he’s looking to carry that momentum into his fight with Di Bella, seeking a career-defining win.
What’s at Stake?
- Jonathan Di Bella: The former champion is looking to bounce back from his loss to Prajanchai and prove that he still belongs at the top of the division.
- Rui Botelho: A win here would not only extend his winning streak but also solidify his place as a contender in the ONE Championship kickboxing scene, especially after his impressive performances in 2023.
Key Questions Heading Into the Fight
- Will Di Bella’s adaptability be the key?
Di Bella is known for his versatile fighting style, but Botelho’s momentum could provide a serious test. How will Di Bella adjust to Botelho’s aggressive approach? - Can Botelho extend his winning streak against a former champion?
Botelho’s rise in the division has been impressive, but defeating a fighter of Di Bella’s caliber would be a huge statement. Can he keep his winning ways intact?
Fans in the United States and Canada can catch all the action live on Amazon Prime Video on Friday, December 6, during U.S. primetime. This fight, alongside other exciting matchups, promises to deliver an unforgettable night of kickboxing.
