Singapore: Thailand's Stamp Fairtex is looking forward to a possible clash with One atomweight world champion Angela Lee next year.
However, second-ranked contender Stamp has to beat No.4 Ritu "The Indian Tigress" Phogat in the One women's atomweight World Grand Prix Championship final in Singapore tomorrow.
If the Thai fighter stops Phogat, she will win the tournament's silver belt and fulfill her dream of challenging "Unstoppable" Lee for the One atomweight world championship in 2022.
Stamp got a surprise video call from Hawaii resident Lee during Tuesday's media day.
Lee praised Stamp for what she's been able to do inside the circle since transitioning from Muay Thai to mixed martial arts.
"Both ladies are world class in their styles," Lee said.
"Everyone knows Stamp Fairtex. She's known for her world class [skills] in Muay Thai and kickboxing, being a former [One] world champion."
Stamp will now use her striking skills to fend off the ground game of the Indian wrestling champion, who was dominant in the quarter-finals and semi-finals of the Grand Prix.
With the fight coming down to who can implement their strengths, whether it be Stamp's striking or Phogat's wrestling, Lee declined to pick a winner.
Instead, she spoke about her excitement in watching the bout unfold.
"It's anyone's game. Their heart and their will are definitely going to be tested. I'm looking forward to seeing who's going to be victorious and who's going to be the World Grand Prix champion," the Canadian-American fighter said.
Meanwhile, Stamp would love to overcome Phogat and get a crack at Lee, who, she said in the media day face-offs, is her idol in MMA.
"I would be very glad to face a fighter I really admire," Stamp said.
However, anything can happen in a fight, and there are no guarantees for the Thai.
Stamp knows this. Lee knows this. That's why the world champion is offering her support to both women but preparing to face either one.
"I just want to wish you ladies the best of luck. I know that both of you have trained extremely hard," Lee said.
"This tournament is finally coming to an end. Having the title of being a Grand Prix champion is truly special, and I know both of you will fight extremely hard. I'm looking forward to meeting the winner next year."
Stamp said: "I'm not scared at all. Ritu is a normal human, just like me. I've been studying Ritu quite deeply. I am well prepared to fight her."
Watch Stamp and Phogat battle tomorrow on the One Super App, YouTube and AIS Play from 7.30pm. Also, Thairath TV32 will broadcast the programme at 9.30pm.