Aliff Sor Dechapan has demonstrated his skills on the global stage and is set to compete at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Friday, November 8, where he will face Walter Goncalves.
From a young age, this Malaysian-Thai athlete has been immersed in the world of combat sports. Initially, the desire to compete did not come naturally to him as he preferred to enjoy life beyond the confines of the gym.
“I began practicing martial arts because my father was a former fighter, a Malaysian national boxer who once competed in the SEA Games final against Somjit Jongjohor,” Aliff shared with ONE.
“However, during my childhood, I wasn't particularly fond of it since it meant sacrificing time with friends to train after school. As a result, I didn't have many friends.”
With his father's encouragement, Aliff eventually developed a deep passion for the sport. He attributes his growth as an athlete to the unwavering support of his parents.
“My father took me to various fights, often spending more on travel expenses than what we earned from the fights. Overall, my parents provided me with financial support,” mentioned the Thai athlete.
“My father is my role model. He supported me in every aspect and aimed for me to surpass his achievements, which I did by winning a gold medal at the SEA Games, a feat he hadn't accomplished.”
Reflecting on his early days, Aliff recalled stepping into the ring on short notice after watching his brother compete.
“I attended my brother's fight and felt inspired to give it a try myself. That day, they put me in the ring without any prior training,” Aliff recounted.
“I was thrilled and enjoyed the experience. It ended in a draw since it was a children's fight where the focus was not on winning or losing.”
Aliff wasn't the first in his family to excel in combat sports, as his younger brother was part of the Malaysian national taekwondo team. When his brother's injuries halted his progress, Aliff stepped up to represent their family.
“I was close to my younger brother growing up. He was a well-known athlete, but due to an injury, he had to stop competing. Consequently, I decided to take his place in the sport,” Aliff explained.
Realizing the need to maximize his potential, Aliff and his family recognized the importance of training in Thailand.
Though the transition was challenging, Aliff now views those tough times as opportunities for mental and physical growth.
“When I first arrived in Thailand, I couldn't speak the language at all, which made life very difficult. I heavily relied on my father and struggled with adjusting to the food,” Aliff reminisced.
“Each time I had to return to Thailand from my hometown, I would cry. However, my father encouraged me to be resilient and face challenges head-on.”
“Gradually, I adapted to life there and improved my proficiency in the Thai language.”
After participating in 60 professional fights, Aliff received an opportunity to compete at ONE Friday Fights, testing his skills on the global stage. With an impressive 53-7 record, this Malaysian-Thai athlete was eager to showcase his talent against elite competitors and transform his life.
“Joining ONE brought me immense joy. Previously, I fought for enjoyment, but now it's a career that allows me to earn a living,” expressed the 20-year-old.
Following a streak of four consecutive victories, Aliff secured a lucrative contract with ONE.
Although there are challenges ahead, particularly at ONE 169 against Goncalves, Aliff is already experiencing the positive impact of competing in the world's premier martial arts organization.
“My life has undergone a transformation. I've expanded my social circle and have started saving money,” Aliff remarked.
“This is a prestigious event broadcast globally, allowing people from all corners of the world to recognize me.”
“My ultimate goal in ONE is to become a World Champion.”
Watch ONE 169 live and free on Prime Video at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on Friday, November 8, exclusively for Amazon Prime members in the U.S. and Canada.