ONE Fight Night 40: Nico Carrillo Ready for Interim Featherweight Title Test

Scottish knockout artist Nico Carrillo talks about his journey to earning a second ONE World Title shot as he prepares to meet Thai sensation Shadow Singha Mawynn in the co-main event of ONE Fight Night

40 for the ONE Interim Featherweight Muay Thai World Championship on 14 February.

The 27-year-old brings a 6-1 ONE record with all victories coming via finishes into this Valentine's Day clash. Carrillo claimed four consecutive victories since his promotional debut in 2023, establishing himself as one of the most dangerous finishers in striking.

His impressive run earned him an opportunity for the ONE Interim Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title against Nabil Anane in January 2025. However, the Scottish striker fell short via first-round TKO, suffering his only promotional defeat and forcing him to reassess his approach.

Carrillo then made the strategic decision to move up to featherweight, where his power and size advantages would prove more significant. "King of the North" wasted no time making an impact, claiming consecutive second-round stoppages against Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong and Luke Lessei.

For Carrillo, this second championship opportunity carries deeper meaning than the first. The Scottish fighter views his journey from title defeat to redemption as an inspirational story about perseverance and refusing to surrender dreams despite setbacks.

"I think it's an even killer story that I'd done that - got to the pinnacle, fell off, had to restart, and do it all over again to prove to people that as long as you don't give up," Carrillo said.

Victory on Valentine's Day would represent more than personal achievement for Carrillo. The Scottish striker sees this interim title as recognition for everyone who supported him through difficult times and believed in his championship dreams.

"If I win this belt, it's a victory for everyone who's been involved in this journey. It's a victory for my wife, my coach, my team, sponsors from years ago - everyone who believed in this dream. This moment is for all of us," Carrillo said.

"The World Title represents what I stand for, and that's hard work. That's what this journey's been. It's been nothing but easy. It's been difficult. And when I get the gold over my shoulder, it's a message to everybody and anybody that hard work pays off. "