Nico Carrillo is no longer focused on defending his No. 1 ranking; his sights are set firmly on challenging for Jonathan Haggerty`s world title.
Following a decisive knockout victory over Saemapetch Fairtex in July, Carrillo is eagerly anticipating the clash between Haggerty and the formidable Superlek Kiatmoo9 for the ONE Muay Thai bantamweight world championship.
“I need to see the outcome of Haggerty vs Superlek,” Carrillo stated. “I would love to fight the winner in November. If Haggerty wins, I believe he will try to avoid defending the title against me.”
“Superlek would likely defend against me, but I`m uncertain if his next fight is planned against Rodtang Jitmuangnon,” he added. “Currently, I feel like I`m in a difficult position.”
Carrillo is determined not to let his opportunity for a title shot slip away as other potential challengers emerge.
“I want to remain active,” he explained, “but I`ve just successfully defended my No. 1 ranking against a highly dangerous opponent. When you`re ranked No. 1, the next logical step is the title.”
“I cannot continue defending my No. 1 position; there`s too much at stake,” he asserted. “I`ve already taken significant risks in defending it. My focus is now on fighting for the championship.”
A bout between a British world champion and the No. 1 contender from Britain within a major combat sports organization would be a significant event.
Carrillo believes this fight should happen sooner rather than later. “My concern is that they might prolong building the fight up, potentially bringing it to England,” he stated. “In my view, let`s fight now. I`ll defeat him, and then we could have a rematch in England. There`s no need to wait; the time is now.”
He added, “I am confident I would knock out Jonathan Haggerty, just like I have others. I have no doubt I would be victorious and become champion.”
“Everything I`ve predicted, I`ve delivered,” Carrillo declared. “I make bold statements about what I intend to do, and so far, I haven`t been proven wrong. I possess a strong inner belief. I consistently validate my confidence.”
His undefeated record in ONE Championship, with all four wins coming by knockout, reinforces this self-assuredness.
“I understand what ONE fans want to see – violence – so I adapted my style accordingly,” he explained.
“The decision by Chatri Sityodtong, the ONE CEO, to use 4oz gloves was brilliant. It makes the fights significantly more entertaining and intense.”
“Transitioning to ONE Championship felt like starting a new sport,” he commented. “Previously, you could absorb strikes on the larger gloves, but with the smaller gloves in ONE, everything connects. There`s very little protection.”
“Even a jab can result in a knockout; any loss of focus can be devastating.”
Fighting for Legacy
While the upcoming ONE 168 event might clarify the next steps for Nico Carrillo`s career, his ultimate impact on the sport extends beyond championship victories. His ambitions reach further than just winning titles.
“My goals are not limited to fighting,” he shared. “I aim to inspire the younger generation and people in general. I grew up in a difficult area with humble beginnings. My message is that you don`t need to have everything from the start to achieve great things. You have the power to choose your own path.”
“Stepping into a Muay Thai gym completely changed my life. If it could do that for me, I am convinced it can do the same for thousands of others.”
Don`t Miss Harrison`s Fight
British Muay Thai pioneer Liam Harrison is set to return on the September 7th event, marking his first fight in two years. He aims to secure a victory against Seksan Or Kwanmuang, a feat Carrillo believes he will accomplish.
“I think he will knock out Seksan,” Carrillo predicted. “I have nothing but respect for Liam Harrison. He has inspired me and many younger fighters at my gym. He is likely the most accomplished British fighter of this era. He single-handedly elevated UK Muay Thai`s profile.”
Carrillo aspires to follow Harrison`s example and become the next leading figure for the sport in Britain.
“I believe I am already moving in that direction,” he stated. “I think Haggerty would agree. The only unresolved issue is determining who the true `king` is. Once we compete, it will become clear who the greatest fighter in the UK is.”
