Bogdan Shumarov Aims for Lightweight Kickboxing Title Shot Against Rukiya Anpo at ONE SAMURAI 4

A single victory could put Bogdan Shumarov on the cusp of the ONE lightweight kickboxing title. His opponent, Rukiya Anpo, is someone Shumarov believes struggles with pressure.

Shumarov will face Anpo in a lightweight kickboxing match at ONE SAMURAI 4 on Saturday, October 17, at Tokyo's Ariake Arena. The 29-year-old Bulgarian has secured three wins in his four ONE appearances, with his sole loss being a split decision to Rungrawee Sitsongpeenong.

Anpo, a former K-1 Champion known for his speed and varied attacks, lost his ONE debut at featherweight against three-time Glory Kickboxing World Champion Marat Grigorian. In this upcoming bout in Tokyo, Anpo enters the lightweight kickboxing division for the first time within ONE, though he has fought at heavier weights under boxing rules.

Shumarov has analyzed Anpo's reactions when opponents deny him space. He points to past fights with Masaaki Noiri and Marat Grigorian as evidence that consistent forward pressure causes him significant issues.

“I think he doesn’t like pressure. We saw it in his past fights, with Noiri and recently with Marat in ONE Championship,” Shumarov stated.

“I believe I can handle that. He won’t be able to handle my pressure.”

Shumarov Sees Regian Eersel as the Next Step After Anpo

For Shumarov, a win against Anpo could directly lead to a championship bout with the reigning ONE Lightweight Kickboxing World Champion, Regian Eersel. A planned fight between them approximately two years ago was canceled due to an injury.

Anpo also fights with urgency, competing in his home country and aiming to establish himself in a new weight class. This situation leaves little room for error for both fighters at Ariake Arena.

“He can be dangerous because, for him, it’s an all-or-nothing situation since the fight is in Japan, his home country,” Shumarov explained.

“But it’s the same for me. It’s all or nothing. If I win, I will likely challenge for the title next, so I cannot afford to lose.”