Japan’s Rising Son: 3 Of Shimon’s Most Dangerous Weapons Against Johan Ghazali At ONE SAMURAI 1

The effectiveness of this weapon lies in both its timing and versatility. Against a pressure-heavy fighter like Ghazali, who thrives on closing distance and has recorded a 75 percent finish rate across his ONE victories, that creates constant openings for Shimon to intercept with clean, fight-altering shots.

#2 Shimon’s Damaging Calf Kicks

Another consistent element of Shimon’s game is his ability to attack the lead leg, particularly with calf kicks – a weapon that has become increasingly prominent among Japanese strikers.

Training out of Eiwa Sports Gym alongside his cousin, reigning ONE Atomweight Muay Thai World Champion Nadaka, Shimon has developed a sharp and methodical kicking game that reflects that growing trend.

In his latest victory over Dedduanglek Torfunfarm at ONE Friday Fights 137, he used low kicks early to disrupt rhythm and limit forward movement. That approach paid off, as the Thai veteran struggled to find his usual tempo, allowing Shimon to control the fight and secure the win.

The same strategy was evident in his bout against “Samingpri” Tagir Khalilov. Repeated attacks to the lead leg forced the Russian striker to adjust his stance and reduced his ability to apply pressure.

Although the fight was later ruled a no contest due to an accidental eye poke in the second round, Shimon had already demonstrated his ability to dictate the pace and neutralize the Russian’s explosiveness.

Rather than relying on single heavy shots, he builds damage over time. His kicks are precise, consistent, and effective at slowing opponents down.

#3 Elite Distance Management

At 5-foot-10, Shimon holds a clear height and reach advantage in this matchup, but what makes it truly effective is how well he uses it.

In his victory over Yodlekpet “The Destroyer” Or Atchariya at ONE 172: Takeru vs. Rodtang, he consistently controlled range, staying just outside striking distance while landing clean shots with minimal return fire.

His footwork is measured rather than flashy. Small positional adjustments allow him to maintain distance and force opponents to reset before launching meaningful offense.

That control becomes especially valuable against aggressive fighters. Yodlekpet, known for his heavy hands, struggled to land cleanly as Shimon dictated where and when exchanges took place.

Ghazali’s success often comes from closing distance quickly and overwhelming opponents. Shimon’s ability to manage range could be a key factor in slowing that approach and keeping the fight in a space that favors his technical strengths.

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