“I took a calculated risk” - Bokang Masunyane regrets overly aggressive approach, gives props to Mansur Malachiev after Bangkok defeat

Bokang Masunyane was on the cusp of potentially challenging for a world title, but his last match just forced him to go back to the drawing board.

The South African dynamo suffered a crucial unanimous decision loss against fellow top-five ranked contender Mansur Malachiev in their strawweight MMA showdown at ONE Fight Night 25 this weekend at Lumpinee Stadium.

Taking to Instagram, Masunyane admitted that he regrets his overly aggressive approach to the match.

Nevertheless, 'Little Giant' applauded Malachiev for working through his approach and landing crisp counters during their matchup.

Bokang Masunyane wrote:

"While I am disappointed with the outcome of the fight, I recognize that it could have gone in either direction. Congratulations to my opponent, @mansur_malachiev_uf on your victory. 👏."

He added:

"I took a calculated risk in an effort to avoid leaving the decision to the judges, and I understand that such outcomes can occur in this sport... I appreciate the support from everyone, and I look forward to returning stronger soon. 🇿🇦🙏💪"

Masunyane was relentless in his pursuit of landing that big shot or sending the match to the ground with a thunderous takedown. Malachiev, however, caught on to his schemes as early as the first minute of the opening round.

Malachiev, the number five strawweight MMA contender, showed a surprising counter-striking game that Masunyane, the number two contender in the division, just couldn't find an answer to.

Masunyane had moments of taking control of Malachiev's back on the ground, but the Russian wrestling machine was far too crafty and regularly escaped to bring the fight back to a stand-up affair.

---

Bokang Masunyane hopes to inspire younger fighters in his home of South Africa

Bokang Masunyane always knew that he wasn't just fighting for himself.

'Little Giant' believes he was put in a position to not only challenge for a ONE world title but inspire the younger fighters in his home nation of South Africa.

He said in a previous interview with ONE Championship:

"I'm at the stage where I’m reaching my pinnacle in fighting, so it’s time to start inspiring young athletes from Africa by having them see me on the international stage, winning titles, and finishing guys. I feel like I have the power and the skills to do it."