Chen Rui Wants to Reinvent His Career Starting With Win Over Muhammad Aiman

Chen Rui has had a pretty good run at it during his time so far in ONE Championship, despite losing his last match. This Friday night in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, “The Ghost” gets to right the ship when he takes on hometown bet Muhammad “Jungle Cat” Aiman.

The two square off in a three-round showdown at ONE: MARK OF GREATNESS, set for the Axiata Arena on 6 December.

Aiman is one of the top talents in ONE Championship, and one of the most prolific to emerge from Malaysia. “The Ghost” is not expecting the challenge he poses to be a walk in the park.

Doing his homework on Aiman, and studying the Malaysian’s previous bouts, Chen feels he doesn’t see much weakness. As such, the Chinese athlete is preparing for the absolute best Aiman possible.

“He is a very complete opponent, able to use both hands well. He is more of a stand-up type, but also good with his ground skills,” says Chen.

“He has good durability and is fast-moving, but he is not too powerful. I will try to force him to exchange with me.”

Chen doesn’t have a prediction for his next bout but is aiming for a quick finish nonetheless.

“Because he will have the support from his home fans, I will definitely have a bit of stress, but this also gives me more motivation,” adds Chen.

“I will try to be quick, I will be more prudent, and I won’t give him many opportunities. I will try my best to win in the second round.”

If he’s victorious here, Chen believes he can reinvent his career.

“This match is very important to me. Because I had a great record before, I need this match to help rebuild my career. This match is a new beginning for me. I will try my best to show all my skills. I want to win a fight with no dispute,” says Chen.

That being said, Chen believes he’s found the perfect balance and is looking to showcase his improved skills.

“After the last match, I have been continuously strengthening my jiu-jitsu skills,” says “The Ghost.”

“I also made a lot of progress mentally, finding a balance between intensity and relaxation.”