Zebaztian Kadestam is set to face Dominik Humburger in the co-main event of Oktagon 87 on April 25th. This middleweight clash brings Kadestam into what he calls “enemy territory,” as Humburger is a strong favorite in the Czech Republic. Despite the challenging environment, Kadestam expressed his enthusiasm for the matchup.
“It feels good,” Kadestam stated. “I’ve had some major fights at ONE, and it feels right to continue with significant bouts. It’s a substantial challenge, and I’m prepared and excited for it.”
Addressing the prospect of fighting away from home, Kadestam revealed a unique perspective. “I’ve never performed particularly well when fighting at home. Most of my career has been on the road. However, I anticipate this will be one of my biggest tests. I’m embracing the idea of being in his hometown and intend to harness that energy. It will be beneficial.”
Reflecting on his transition from ONE Championship to Oktagon MMA, Kadestam noted the European promotion’s growth. “They’re doing well in Europe, putting on major shows in large arenas with compelling fights. We have several teammates signing with them, so it appears to be a positive step forward.”
Kadestam, a former ONE welterweight champion, hasn’t shied away from the possibility of adding Oktagon MMA gold to his collection. “Yes, absolutely,” he admitted with a laugh when asked about his championship ambitions. “I aim to secure the welterweight title in Oktagon as well. However, we’re currently focused on this middleweight fight against a formidable opponent. We’ll address that opportunity after this bout.”
While Kadestam has his sights set on a welterweight championship, he’s competing at middleweight for this particular fight. He explained the strategic reasoning behind this decision. “At ONE, I always fought at 185 pounds, but their weight class measurements can be a bit different. My last MMA fight in ONE was actually at light heavyweight. So, I need to reacquaint myself with making weight again. I’ve been with ONE since 2017, so I need to get used to cutting weight in a conventional manner. Middleweight feels good, but I believe welterweight is where I truly belong.”
Kadestam also shed light on his departure from ONE Championship, citing a lack of activity as a primary driver for his move to Oktagon MMA. “Activity was the main reason,” he confirmed. “I had only one MMA fight in the past three years. I need to be more active. I had great years with ONE, a fantastic journey with many good memories. But I need to compete. Fighters fight; it’s what we do. So, I have to get going.”
English Translation:
Zebaztian Kadestam is set to face Dominik Humburger in the co-main event of Oktagon 87 on April 25th. This middleweight clash brings Kadestam into what he calls “enemy territory,” as Humburger is a strong favorite in the Czech Republic. Despite the challenging environment, Kadestam expressed his enthusiasm for the matchup.
“It feels good,” Kadestam stated. “I’ve had some major fights at ONE, and it feels right to continue with significant bouts. It’s a substantial challenge, and I’m prepared and excited for it.”
Addressing the prospect of fighting away from home, Kadestam revealed a unique perspective. “I’ve never performed particularly well when fighting at home. Most of my career has been on the road. However, I anticipate this will be one of my biggest tests. I’m embracing the idea of being in his hometown and intend to harness that energy. It will be beneficial.”
Reflecting on his transition from ONE Championship to Oktagon MMA, Kadestam noted the European promotion’s growth. “They’re doing well in Europe, putting on major shows in large arenas with compelling fights. We have several teammates signing with them, so it appears to be a positive step forward.”
Kadestam, a former ONE welterweight champion, hasn’t shied away from the possibility of adding Oktagon MMA gold to his collection. “Yes, absolutely,” he admitted with a laugh when asked about his championship ambitions. “I aim to secure the welterweight title in Oktagon as well. However, we’re currently focused on this middleweight fight against a formidable opponent. We’ll address that opportunity after this bout.”
While Kadestam has his sights set on a welterweight championship, he’s competing at middleweight for this particular fight. He explained the strategic reasoning behind this decision. “At ONE, I always fought at 185 pounds, but their weight class measurements can be a bit different. My last MMA fight in ONE was actually at light heavyweight. So, I need to reacquaint myself with making weight again. I’ve been with ONE since 2017, so I need to get used to cutting weight in a conventional manner. Middleweight feels good, but I believe welterweight is where I truly belong.”
Kadestam also shed light on his departure from ONE Championship, citing a lack of activity as a primary driver for his move to Oktagon MMA. “Activity was the main reason,” he confirmed. “I had only one MMA fight in the past three years. I need to be more active. I had great years with ONE, a fantastic journey with many good memories. But I need to compete. Fighters fight; it’s what we do. So, I have to get going.”