Rantau panjang: ONE Championship Muay Thai interim strawweight world champion Ahmad Nor Iman Aliff Rakib is eager for his unification bout against the undisputed Thai world champion Prajanchai PK Saenchai to be hosted in Malaysia. Aliff believes that fighting on home soil would provide him with an advantage through the support of local fans, potentially increasing pressure on his opponent.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aliff, 22, is hopeful that the Malaysian government will back his endeavor to hold the unification bout in Malaysia, which he believes would determine the true world champion in the category. He expressed his thoughts during a thanksgiving ceremony at his new home in Taman Sri Rantau, Rantau Panjang. Aliff recalled the support he received from Malaysians when he fought in Bangkok, and he envisions even greater support if the bout were held locally.

Aliff recently made history on July 24 by defeating Thailand's Sam-A Gaiyanghadao via a knockout in the fifth round at Lumpinee Stadium, Bangkok. This victory earned him the ONE Interim Strawweight Muay Thai World Championship belt and a USD50,000 victory bonus. The win, achieved at 1:09 of the fifth round through a combination of punches and kicks, improved his professional record to 63 wins and nine losses, paving the way for a unification bout with Prajanchai, who is currently sidelined by injury.

Aliff is gearing up for the challenge and plans to return to Bangkok soon to intensify his training. He acknowledges Prajanchai's stature as a world champion and recognizes the need to elevate his preparation levels. Aliff's family support remains a crucial element in his journey. If successful in dethroning Prajanchai, Aliff aims to defend the championship belt for at least three years and hopes to inspire more young people to embrace Muay Thai.