Dmitrii Kovtun reveals why he returned to Russia ahead of ONE Fight Night 32 clash with Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon
- Mark Myword

- May 29
- 6 min read

Dmitrii Kovtun is preparing for the toughest fight of his career against #4-ranked bantamweight Muay Thai fighter Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon at ONE Fight Night 32 on June 6 at Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium. Many have wondered why Kovtun chose to leave his training camp in Thailand and head back to Russia right before such an important match.
Kovtun explained that after spending eight months in Thailand, he needed a “reset” to clear his mind and get back in top form. Back home, he could work closely with his friend Alexander and focus, recharging both mentally and physically for the upcoming challenge.
To learn more about how this decision shapes his strategy for fight night, find out what Kovtun shared about his return to Russia in this detailed interview.
Dmitrii Kovtun’s Decision to Return to Russia
Dmitrii Kovtun’s return to Russia marked a major turning point ahead of his important fight. His choice was shaped by a mix of personal needs and training goals, as well as the special support he could only find at home.
Motivations Behind the Move
Kovtun decided to go back to Russia because he felt burned out after months of intense training and travel. He needed a break to deal with stress and mental fatigue before facing Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon, one of the top bantamweight Muay Thai competitors.
He also wanted to train with his original coaches. Working with familiar mentors would help him sharpen his technique and fix mistakes spotted during his recent fights. Being at home meant he could eat the food he grew up with and sleep in a familiar place, giving him comfort he couldn’t find elsewhere.
He viewed his return as a chance to shut out distractions. In Russia, he could focus just on the fight and make sure he was ready both physically and mentally.
Personal and Professional Reflections
During his time back in Russia, Kovtun reconnected with family and friends who had supported his career from the beginning. This support system reminded him of his roots and boosted his confidence.
He spent time reflecting on his journey in martial arts. He re-watched footage of his fights and listened to feedback from people he trusted most. These honest conversations helped him see where he had improved and where he still needed to grow.
Kovtun admitted that being away from the noise and pressure of big fight cities like Bangkok gave him clarity. It let him set clear short-term and long-term goals, not just as a fighter, but as a person.
How Russia Became the Ideal Reset
Russia offered Kovtun the conditions he needed to reset.He was able to train privately in local gyms, away from media cameras and large crowds. This reduced stress and let him focus on his game plan.
A steady daily schedule helped Kovtun feel more balanced. Mornings were for physical training, afternoons for study and rest, and evenings for family time. This structure made him feel stronger and more focused.
The cold, quiet environment of his Russian hometown encouraged self-discipline. Kovtun said that being around people who understood him and supported his goals brought him mental peace. For him, Russia was the right place to rebuild his mindset and get ready for the biggest fight of his life.
Preparation for the Biggest Bout of His Career
Dmitrii Kovtun aims to make a strong statement against Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon at ONE Fight Night 32. His preparation covers technical training, mindset, and the unique advantages brought by Russian training camps.
Training Regimen and Strategy
Kovtun's daily schedule is strict and organized. He starts with early morning runs to build stamina, followed by Muay Thai pad work and sparring sessions. Drills focus on both offense and defense, especially against strong strikers like Rambolek.
Strength and conditioning workouts are included for power and speed. Technique breakdowns help him counter Rambolek’s known combinations. Kovtun’s coaches adjust strategies to exploit any weaknesses seen in previous fights. His game plan highlights precise timing and sharp clinches, aiming to control the pace of the match.
Sample Training Day:
Time | Activity |
6:00 - 7:00am | Roadwork/Running |
9:00 - 11:00am | Technique Drills |
1:00 - 2:00pm | Sparring |
4:00 - 5:00pm | Conditioning/Weights |
7:00 - 8:00pm | Stretching & Recovery |
Mental and Physical Readiness
Kovtun understands high-level competition is as mental as it is physical. He meets with a sports psychologist twice a week to work on focus and stress management. Regular visualization exercises prepare him to handle pressure and stay calm under the stadium lights.
He puts extra effort into recovery with ice baths and massage therapy to stay injury-free. Nutrition is maintained with a clean diet, focusing on proteins and complex carbs. Hydration and sleep remain non-negotiable parts of his routine. Kovtun’s goal is not just to be fit, but to be fully prepared to think clearly and react quickly during the match.
Influence of Russian Training Camps
Russian training camps provide Kovtun with a disciplined environment and access to top-level coaches. He trains alongside other elite fighters, pushing each other to reach higher levels of performance. The camps focus heavily on fundamentals, ensuring every movement is sharp and efficient.
Group drills foster teamwork, but every fighter also receives personal feedback from coaches. This system combines old-school Soviet discipline with modern sports science. Kovtun credits the structure and high expectations of his homeland’s camps for building his mental toughness and technical foundation, setting him apart when facing international opponents.
Showdown Against Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon at ONE Fight Night 32
Dmitrii Kovtun faces a major test as he enters the ring against the highly ranked Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon. The event in Bangkok gathers top Muay Thai talent and has important stakes for both fighters’ careers in the bantamweight division.
Event Details and Venue
ONE Fight Night 32 is set for Friday, June 6, at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. Lumpinee Stadium is one of the most respected venues for Muay Thai, with a long history of holding major bouts. The stadium's atmosphere is intense and can be a challenge for fighters who are not used to the crowd’s energy.
The event begins in the evening with a stacked fight card featuring many skilled athletes. Kovtun’s match against Rambolek is among the night’s highlighted showdowns. Fans can watch the event live through official broadcast partners, while local supporters in Bangkok are expected to fill the seats.
Fighting at Lumpinee offers a unique stage. The energy and history of the venue motivate many athletes to perform at their highest level. For Kovtun, this is his chance to make a name in front of a knowledgeable and passionate Muay Thai audience.
Profile of Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon
Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon holds the #4 ranking in the bantamweight Muay Thai division. He is known for his powerful striking and aggressive style inside the ring. Rambolek has built a strong reputation for finishing his fights and rarely leaves the result to the judges.
His fight record includes several impressive wins over ranked opponents. Rambolek is also respected for his conditioning and his ability to keep up the pressure throughout all rounds. He uses a mix of elbows, knees, and sharp punches to break down his rivals.
Rambolek’s training camp is based in Thailand, where he works with some of the best Muay Thai coaches in the country. He is considered one of the most promising athletes in his division and is seen as a tough matchup for anyone.
Key Matchup Storylines
Kovtun’s return to Russia to reset before this fight has become a major point of interest. He spent time in Thailand before, but chose to go home for his training camp to regain focus and prepare mentally and physically for this career-defining bout. Kovtun spoke openly about needing a fresh start and finding motivation while training with trusted partners in Russia, which has been covered in recent interviews—learn more about his reset in this feature.
Stylistically, the fight features Kovtun’s technical skills and movement against Rambolek’s heavy-handed approach. Kovtun will need to avoid getting caught by Rambolek’s power shots. Both fighters have a lot to prove and are fighting for higher stakes: beyond a win, they each want to make a statement in front of a global audience.
Preparation and mental focus are key factors. Kovtun adapted his training after a long stint in Thailand, while Rambolek continues his routine at home with familiar coaches and sparring partners. Their adjustments and choices in camp could have an impact on how the fight plays out.
Implications for the Bantamweight Division
The winner of this fight will gain momentum in the crowded ONE Championship bantamweight Muay Thai division. Rambolek, currently ranked #4, would boost his claim for a title shot with another victory. A win would put Kovtun on the map as a top contender and could lead to even bigger matchups soon.
This bout may also influence future title eliminator bouts, with rankings at stake for both competitors. The division is competitive, so a single high-profile win can quickly change a fighter’s trajectory.
Other fighters in the bantamweight class will be watching closely to see how Kovtun and Rambolek perform. Their strategies, strengths, and weaknesses on display could alter future rankings and open new rivalries.
ONE Fight Night 32 is viewed as a pivotal event for fighters trying to separate themselves from the pack and become leading names in the sport. The outcome of this match could shift the balance at the top of the bantamweight division.



