Kickboxing legend Nieky “The Natural” Holzken has been eagerly awaiting the chance to compete on the global stage once again. 

And with COVID-19 restrictions finally easing, his wait is almost over. 

Holzken will take on Elliot “The Dragon” Compton in a ONE Super Series Kickboxing lightweight foray at ONE: BIG BANG II, a previously recorded event from the Singapore Indoor Stadium that airs this Friday, 11 December. 

“Finally, the fight is coming,” an elated Holzken said.  

“It is very nice that through these COVID times we can actually compete with each other. I have trained very hard for Elliot, and I am very sharp right now.” 

Holzken will undoubtedly need to be very sharp against a savvy striker like Compton, who’s only competed in one prior kickboxing fight but owns an extensive background in “the art of eight limbs.” 

“Elliot is an all-around fighter with a lot of experience. He has done a lot of Muay Thai fights, so his weapons are normally with the clinch and elbows. He has some good jabs, low kicks, and tricky things,” Holzken said. 

“I think I’m good all-around too, but I think I’m the better boxer and that will be my key to success in this fight with Elliot. I also think I’m stronger and more complete, with better defense.” 

Holzken’s experience backs up his claims. The man from the Netherlands has shared the ring with many legends of the sport and has been competing for nearly two decades. 

With that said, “The Natural” has developed a realistic outlook on his chances of achieving his ultimate goal.

“I’ve had 147 fights in total, so I know that you can make mistakes, you can win and you can lose, but I’m always strong-minded, and I always want to be the best. I think maybe one, two, or three more fights, then I can fight for the World Title again. I just want to get back on track,” he said. 

“I’m 36 years old, but I am still the #1 contender. At the gym, I feel as strong as ever. I think when I am mentally prepared and 100 percent focused that I can still beat everybody. I am still very strong and motivated to be the champ.” 

Before that happens, however, he has to get past a young and hungry Australian who’s also looking to cement his own legacy – and Holzken has just the game plan in mind. 

“Right away from the bell, I am going to pressure him. I am going to push him backwards and try to get him with good shots in the first round,” the Dutchman said. 

“I am known for my body shot, and I think that is a good thing to hit him with. Then maybe I can end it with a knockout.” 

If he scores the impressive finish over Compton, not only will Holzken retain his #1-ranked status in ONE’s lightweight kickboxing division, but he may also further his case for another shot at the World Title currently held by Regian “The Immortal” Eersel. 

“I’m still the #1 contender, so my job is to finish all of the guys beneath me to get a few wins and run for the World Title again,” Holzken said. 

“My motivation is high. I still love the game so much, and I still want the ONE belt — that is the number-one priority for me.” 

Watch ONE: BIG BANG II, a previously recorded event from the Singapore Indoor Stadium, on 11 December on meWATCH or the ONE Super App at 8:30 p.m. Singapore Standard Time (SGT). Also, Channel 5 will cut into the broadcast at 10 p.m. SGT. 

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