China's kickboxer Zhang Chenglong wins at maiden Singapore ONE appearance
Chen Rong
["china"]
China's Zhang Chenglong, who is already a top Muay Thai world champion, had a triumphant win at his maiden debut at the "ONE Championship: Call to Greatness" in Singapore on Friday.
The 21-year-old Chinese striker defeated Kong Sambo of Cambodia after three-round fights at the ONE Championship's Super Series kickboxing bantamweight bout at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. 
Kong, 23, was named "little white dragon" as he is a world-class Kun Khmer Champion. Their match was one of the 11 events on the opening day of the championship. Singapore is the birthplace of the sporting event, which was launched in 2011 to promote mixed martial arts, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and grappling. A total of 30 tournaments will be carried out this year, according to the organizing committee.
Even though he did not KO his opponent, Zhang won the match based on the split decision by two of the three judges' scorecards. "It was regretful that I did not show my full power on the ring," Zhang said about his unsatisfactory performance on Friday night.
Speaking of his slipping in the opening round, Zhang said, "It was because I used excessive force, which turned out to be too powerful."
Then Zhang scooped his fight on the way to defend against several front kicks and then to punch combinations down the center on his opponent.
Commentators said Zhang really built a wall on the right side of his body against Kong in the next two rounds.
In an interview, Zhang said his career as a professional fighter was greatly inspired by his family. His elder brother is a professional Muay Thai fighter and his father was a boxer, and his grandfather was also a martial artist.
"I have been training in Muay Thai since I was 13 years old and I have dedicated all my life to this sport. I respect all my opponents and because I respect them, I always try and KO them. That way, I bring out their best and that brings out my best. I hope my opponents have the same attitude."
"I like to use my heart when I fight. Don't get me wrong, I fight smart, but I don't like to take a step back. I'm always pressing forward. I'm very confident in my skill level also. I think people will be surprised to see a Chinese fighter who has the same level as a professional Thai fighter."
"I train every day and if I am not training then I am probably in the process of a fight week and waiting for the weekend when I will fight," he laughed.
"I like traveling and I am glad that through this sport I get to see a much bigger world and meet with lots of interesting people."
(Top image by Li Jingjie)