Former world champion boxer Ana Julaton is predicting “toe-to-toe” action when she continues her transition to the world of mixed martial arts in Dubai this Friday.
Julaton, a former WBO super bantamweight champion, switched to MMA last year and will face Malaysia’s Ann Osman as part of the One Figthing Championship’s Reign of Champions event.
The card at the Dubai World Trade Centre is headlined by three championship bouts with another six fights on the undercard.
And Julaton, a Filipino-American, says her showdown with Osman will produce “fireworks”.
“It’s been a fun transformation switching from boxing to mixed martial arts,” the 34-year-old told Sport360° at a One FC open workout at HM Fitness in Dubai yesterday. “It’s been tough but that was expected. I have received some criticism but most people love the excitement that my toe-to-toe style brings to the world of MMA.
“The fans should expect fireworks in my fight. I’m pumped up to get in the ring and show the world that I’m not just a good boxer.”
Also on the bill is Iran’s Kamal Shalorus, who challenges Japan’s Shinya Aoki for his lightweight championship.
Aoki boasts a 35-6 record, including winning 12 of his past 13 fights, but Shalorus is confident his preparations have served him well.
“The training camp has gone great”, Shalorus said.
“This is a huge opportunity for me and I’m confident that I am ready to win the title.
“I don’t care about the opponent and his reputation. My style is just to fight and any opportunity that comes, I’m going to take it.”
Nicknamed “The Prince of Persia”, Shalorus is cherishing the opportunity to fight in the UAE and urged the Iranian expat population to come down and support him.
“Dubai is an amazing, beautiful city”, he explained. “It’s a nice feeling having so many Persians here. It feels like home. I feel so lucky to be here and Friday really is going to be an extraordinary experience.”
In the other lightweight bout, Roger Huerta, who appeared in the 2009 film adaptation of legendary fighting game Tekken, is anxious to get back in the ring to take on the UK’s Christian Holley after over two years out.
“I was experiencing a lot of injuries and wasn’t prepared to fight but eventually everything heals and I just want to compete again and enjoy the occasion,” said Huerta. “I would be lying if I didn’t say I was nervous about this fight but that’s because I care. I’m excited to showcase my skills in front of you guys.”
Tickets for the event are on sale and can be bought online at www.platinumlist.net.
