The undefeated prospect says fan interest, not rankings, was the biggest reason behind accepting one of his riskiest matchups to date.
As anticipation builds for one of the most talked-about matchups in the Korean MMA scene, Chang Hyeon Shin (“Tigro”) has shared why he chose to accept a fight against Song Ung Kim, better known by his nickname “Viper.”
Speaking during a recent interview with DK Head, Chang Hyeon Shin explained that while many see the matchup as carrying more risk than reward, he believes it’s the type of fight that helps build his career—and gives fans exactly what they want to see.
Weight Class Doesn’t Worry Him
One of the biggest talking points surrounding the fight has been the difference in each fighter’s natural weight class.
Song Ung Kim has primarily competed at flyweight, while Shin now fights at bantamweight. However, Shin dismissed the notion that the matchup presents any significant size advantage.
He revealed that he also competed at flyweight earlier in his career before moving to bantamweight due to injuries and the difficulty of repeated weight cuts.
“I could still make flyweight if I really wanted to,” Shin explained, adding that he doesn’t believe weight will determine the outcome of the fight.
A Difficult Opponent
While confident in his abilities, Shin had plenty of respect for Song Ung Kim’s style.
According to Shin, nearly everyone who has fought Kim describes him as one of the most difficult opponents they’ve faced.
He also reflected on his previous bout with Hyper, noting that Hyper’s awkward and challenging style reminded him of Kim’s approach.
“Everyone says he’s incredibly tricky to fight,” Shin said. “I understand why.”
A Fight Fans Wanted
Chang Hyeon Shin openly admitted that defeating Song Ung Kim won’t dramatically improve his ranking.
With Kim primarily known as a flyweight competitor, there isn’t a major rankings reward attached to the victory.
Instead, Shin accepted the bout for two simple reasons.
First, he believes fans genuinely want to see the matchup.
Second, he feels it’s important to continue proving himself through competition rather than simply enjoying the attention he’s recently received.
“I don’t want to just sit back and enjoy the interest,” Shin said. “I have to keep fighting, get results, and prove I deserve it.”
Accepting the Pressure
Chang Hyeon Shin also acknowledged the pressure surrounding the fight.
He understands that a loss could quickly shift public opinion, especially with the amount of attention the matchup has generated.
Rather than avoiding that pressure, he says it’s something every rising fighter eventually has to accept.
“I’d be lying if I said I don’t think about it,” he admitted. “But that’s the responsibility that comes with becoming a fighter people pay attention to.”
Looking for Another Finish
Known for his aggressive style, Chang Hyeon Shin made it clear that his mindset hasn’t changed.
He noted that all four of his professional victories have ended inside the distance and hopes to extend that streak.
“My goal is always the same,” he said. “I’m always looking for the finish.”
Friendly Outside the Cage
Although the promotion has generated plenty of excitement, Shin emphasized that there is mutual respect between the two fighters.
He joked about previous interactions with Song Ung Kim during livestreams and online broadcasts, saying they’ve always had a good relationship.
Still, once the cage door closes, Shin expects only one fighter to leave with a smile.
“We’ll have fun before and after the fight,” he said with a laugh. “But after the fight, I’m the one who’s going to be smiling.”
Already Looking Ahead
If he gets past Song Ung Kim, Shin already knows who he wants next.
He once again called for a fight with Pikachu of Team Rookie, saying it’s a matchup he believes both he and the fans want to see.
Message to Supporters
Chang Hyeon Shin finished the interview by thanking fans for their growing support while asking them to continue believing in him regardless of the result.
He acknowledged that some people still question whether he’s the real deal, but insisted that performances—not hype—will ultimately define his career.
“Some people might think I’m all hype,” Shin said. “Others might believe I’m the real thing. That’s up to me to prove.”
With a dangerous challenge awaiting him against Song Ung Kim, Chang Hyeon Shin is embracing both the opportunity and the pressure that comes with it.
Full interview available courtesy of DK Head Youtube Channel.
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