He is a simple guy from Moldova who fell in love with martial arts at 13, turned professional, and never looked back.

At ONE Friday Fights 149 this Friday, April 3, Bejenuta “Gladiator” Maximus makes his ONE Championship debut in the main event at Bangkok’s legendary Lumpinee Stadium — and the 24-year-old is not there to make up the numbers.

Built for this moment

Bejenuta Maximus did not reach this stage overnight. The Moldovan compiled over 100 amateur bouts across Europe before turning professional, building a 15-3 kickboxing record and later adding Muay Thai to his arsenal after relocating to Thailand one year ago.

That move proved transformative. Since arriving, he has immersed himself in the sport at its source, sharpening his skills in ways that were not possible back home.

Now training at Team Mehdi Zatout in Pattaya, Maximus works closely with Dmitry Cerberus and Chris Forza. He has also adapted quickly to ONE’s four-ounce gloves, which suit his style and enhance his precision.

"I'm feeling more confident because I can feel the distance better with these gloves. When I extend my arms, it's easier than with big gloves. I can catch and use my arms more, and everything becomes easier for me," Maximus said.
"I don't need to throw strong punches. I just need to punch from A to B. Also, I can see more clearly when I protect my head. Everything goes faster."

Patience as the path to a knockout

Maximus has studied his opponent, Tomyamkoong Bhumjaithai, and understands the challenge ahead. The PK Saenchai Muaythaigym product is a composed and technical fighter, known for his left kicks and strong clinch work.

Still, Maximus has a clear strategy — and patience is key.

This “Gladiator” is not coming to brawl. He is coming to hunt.

"He's a good professional Thai fighter. He often uses left kicks to the middle. He tries to clinch and work smart. He's a good fighter," Maximus said.
"If I work smart and use my strategy, the knockout will come. Just like an angry shark, we need to wait for the moment and then throw the hands and legs. It's a strategy. The knockout will come. We just need to work smart."

A debut at the sport’s most iconic venue

This Friday marks more than just a debut — it will also be Maximus’ first time stepping into Lumpinee Stadium, one of the most historic venues in Muay Thai.

For a fighter who left Moldova, relocated to Thailand, and rebuilt his career from the ground up, competing on this stage carries a deeper meaning.

And “The Gladiator” is ready for the moment.

"I'm a little bit excited and confident," Maximus said.
"It's a life of a fighter, so I understand that. It's a great opportunity in my life, so I need to use it. I need to use it, and I'm very happy. And it's ONE Championship."

Watch beIN SPORTS Xtra live for free on YouTube