Bogdan Shumarov Faces Rukiya Anpo in a Crucial Lightweight Kickboxing Bout

Bogdan Shumarov is one win away from a potential shot at the ONE lightweight kickboxing title. His next opponent is Rukiya Anpo, a fighter Shumarov believes dislikes being pressured.

The bout between Shumarov and Anpo is scheduled for ONE SAMURAI 4 on Saturday, October 17, at Tokyo's Ariake Arena. Shumarov, 29, has a 3-1 record in ONE, with his sole loss a split decision against Rungrawee Sitsongpeenong.

Anpo, a former K-1 Champion, is known for his speed and varied attacks. He lost his ONE debut to Marat Grigorian at featherweight. Now, he moves to lightweight kickboxing for his ONE competition, having previously fought at heavier weights in boxing.

Shumarov has analyzed Anpo's reactions when his space is limited. He points to Anpo's past fights with Masaaki Noiri and Marat Grigorian, suggesting that continuous forward pressure creates significant challenges for him.

“I think he doesn’t like the pressure. Like we see in the previous fight, even back in the days with Noiri, now in ONE Championship with Marat,” Shumarov stated. “So I think I can handle this [well]. I think he’s not gonna take my pressure.”

Shumarov Looks Past Anpo to Potential Title Fight with Regian Eersel

A victory for Shumarov could set him up for a fight against the current ONE Lightweight Kickboxing World Champion, Regian Eersel. A bout between them was previously planned but was postponed due to an injury.

Anpo also has high stakes, fighting in his home country and aiming to establish himself in a new weight class. Both fighters are under considerable pressure at the Ariake Arena.

“He can be dangerous because, of course, for him it’s all or nothing because his fight is also [in Japan]. He’s in his home,” Shumarov commented. “But for me, the same. It’s all or nothing because if I win, I [will probably] go for the title next, so I don’t have a chance to lose.”