Roman Kryklia refuses to declare himself the greatest heavyweight striker despite carrying two ONE World Titles across his 6-foot-6 frame because complacency disguised as confidence represents the moment champions stop improving toward actual greatness.

The Ukrainian powerhouse challenges undefeated Turkish sensation Samet Agdeve for the inaugural ONE Heavyweight Kickboxing World Championship on November 7 at ONE Fight Night 37 on Prime Video in Bangkok, broadcasting live in U.S. primetime where discipline trumps motivation in his pursuit of historic third-title glory.

Already holding light heavyweight kickboxing and heavyweight Muay Thai crowns positions Kryklia among the striking arts’ all-time greats, yet that success only intensifies his hunger rather than satisfying it. The 34-year-old treats championships as stepping stones on an endless climb rather than destinations deserving celebration and rest.

His April defense of the Muay Thai title showcased that relentless excellence. Kryklia floored former WBC World Champion Lyndon Knowles three times during the opening round, extending a perfect promotional record built on seven consecutive victories including six devastating finishes across a 15-fight winning streak stretching back to 2018.

Those achievements under bright lights tell only partial stories. Real work unfolds in empty gyms where nobody watches, counting repetitions while fixing single flaws through countless drilling sessions that explain his dominance better than any highlight reel.

“When you become a champion, you feel pressure more and more with time,” Kryklia said. “People see me as the most dominant heavyweight striker in the world. It gives big pressure, but I don’t care because of my discipline.”

Discipline supersedes motivation in his championship formula. Where temporary emotional spikes fade, systematic daily commitment toward improvement persists regardless of circumstances or feelings. That philosophical foundation separates champions who defend titles from legends who collect them across divisions.

A victory over Agdeve would complete his heavyweight conquest while cementing legacy status few strikers achieve. The towering Ukrainian understands this November 7 collision represents more than adding gold to his collection — it validates everything sacrificed during his journey toward the striking world’s summit.

“When they put the new belt on my shoulder, it just means that [I’ve taken] one more step in my way to the very top of the striking world,” he said. “And I think this is the place where I want to be.”

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