Malaysian Muay Thai sensation Rifdean Masdor announced himself on the international stage in spectacular fashion after scoring a devastating first-round knockout victory over Javad Mozafari of Iran at The Inner Circle 19 in Lumpinee Stadium.
The emphatic finish not only extended the 23-year-old’s impressive rise in the sport but also earned him a coveted US$100,000 (approximately RM425,000) ONE Championship contract, along with a 350,000 Baht (around RM44,000) Performance Bonus for his outstanding display.
Nicknamed “Magic Boy,” Rifdean wasted little time making his presence felt inside one of Muay Thai’s most iconic venues.
Displaying composure, precision and explosive power, the Malaysian needed just one round to stop Mozafari, delivering the type of performance that caught the attention of ONE Championship officials and secured his place on the promotion’s global roster.
The victory marks the biggest milestone of Rifdean’s professional career and establishes him as one of Malaysia’s brightest emerging stars in combat sports.
Following the victory, Rifdean revealed that his toughest battle came long before stepping into the ring.
“This fight was actually me fighting myself. It wasn’t against anyone else. I was fighting myself,” he said after the bout.
The Malaysian explained that months of disciplined preparation and mental focus had been key to producing such a commanding performance.
Looking ahead to his next challenge, Rifdean promised that fans have yet to see his best.
“For my next fight, I will become even better and continue to stay disciplined.”
Despite the spectacular finish and the life-changing rewards that followed, Rifdean admitted he was still trying to process what had happened.
“I honestly don’t know what to say. I’m lost for words. But it was a very good fight for me.”
His humble reaction reflected the magnitude of a night that transformed his career in a matter of minutes.
Rifdean’s breakthrough continues the growing presence of Malaysian fighters on the international Muay Thai scene.
Securing a ONE Championship contract is regarded as one of the sport’s biggest achievements, offering athletes the opportunity to compete against the world’s elite on the global stage.
With explosive striking ability, composure under pressure and an unwavering commitment to improvement, “Magic Boy” now joins the next generation of Malaysian combat sports athletes aiming to make their mark in ONE Championship.
His stunning knockout in Bangkok may prove to be the beginning of a much bigger journey.
Credit Photo : ONE
