The 22-year-old Chinese striker has won two of three promotional appearances against the elite competition. His upset wins over Masaaki Noiri and Shadow Singha Mawynn revealed tools that make him dangerous against anyone who faces him. Now he faces the biggest test of his career in non-title action.
Three weapons determine Liu’s threat level on the way to Bangkok. His counter punch dropped former interim champion Noiri within the first minute of his debut. The same precision knocked out Shadow Singha Mawynn after one round of studying the Thai’s forward pressure. Those moments were not accidents.
Liu built a 21-fight winning streak for ONE with the same disciplined approach. He doesn’t need many chances to change a fight. Just the right thing at the right time with perfect timing.
Liu Mengyang’s durability keeps him dangerous during the exchanges
Liu Mengyan doesn’t rely on fancy footwork or evasive moves. He stands firm, absorbs shots with poise and returns fire with purpose. That resilience allowed him to survive Noiri’s heavy body work while continuing to act at close range.
His close split-decision loss to Mohammad Siasarani tested that toughness in another way. The Iranian landed clean left hands throughout the second round. Liu absorbed everything without retreating, keeping his stance steady while consistently firing back. The judges barely gave it to Siasarani.
Shadow brought Muay Thai weapons into their kickboxing match. Liu ate knees and kicks before turning the fight around with one perfectly timed knockdown. His ability to remain calm under attack allows him to create the moments that matter most.
The gas tank completes the package. Liu kept the pace during Noiri’s corporal punishment, following Shadow’s chaos for 15 minutes and staying sharp despite pressure from Siasarani who changed positions. Tawanchai brings precision and power over three rounds. Liu’s stable motor could be crucial if the champion can’t break him early.
Opponents must crack both his guard and his resolve. Even if he takes damage, he continues to fight with full intent until the final bell sounds.
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