Tom Keogh is set to make his return to ONE Friday Fights on July 10th, where he will face Russia's Michael Baranov in another important step in his career on the international stage.
Baranov, just 23 years of age, enters the contest with a 2–1 record under the ONE Championship banner while representing Tiger Muay Thai in Phuket.
His victories include knockout wins over Argentina's Angel Bauza and Japan's Shoma. Bauza is a respected name on the international circuit and most recently challenged Daniel Rodriguez for the Rajadamnern World Series super welterweight championship, adding further context to Baranov's victory.
His only defeat in ONE came under Muay Thai rules against Ali Khalat, who has since established himself as one of the promotion's rising contenders with a perfect 3–0 record.
Michael Baranov: A Well-Rounded Test
Baranov arrives with more than just an impressive record. The 23-year-old southpaw is a technically well-rounded fighter who has developed a varied style during his time training out of Tiger Muay Thai.
He is particularly effective behind his left body kick and long left knee, using his southpaw stance to create awkward angles and control distance. His boxing is equally composed, allowing him to mix punches and kicks effectively rather than relying on a single weapon. Throughout his recent performances, Baranov has shown himself to be durable, technically sound, and capable of adapting to different styles.
Away from ONE Championship, he has also built valuable experience across the Thai circuit. He has competed under Muay Thai rules at Patong Stadium, fought for M2MMA, and appeared on the World Muay Thai Grand Prix, where he recorded a notable victory over Thai Tamroypor. He also captured the 70kg Super Fight Championship belt in Hong Kong, adding another title to his résumé before making the move onto the international stage.
While Baranov brings genuine experience and credentials into this contest, Keogh arguably enters having faced the stronger level of opposition overall. Competing consistently against high-level international talent has accelerated his development, making this an intriguing meeting between two fighters whose careers continue to move in the right direction.
Another Important Test for Keogh
For Keogh, the matchup represents another significant test. His performances in ONE Friday Fights have established him as one of Ireland's standout competitors on the international stage, with decisive victories demonstrating both his composure and finishing ability under the bright lights of Bangkok.
However, Baranov presents a different challenge. His southpaw stance, varied offence, and experience competing make him one of the more complete opponents Keogh has faced since joining the promotion.
Both men arrive with momentum, both are looking to climb the promotion's ladder, and both understand the significance of another victory inside Lumpinee Stadium.
Rather than a clash between a favourite and an outsider, this is a meeting of two accomplished young fighters whose careers continue to move in the right direction.
With contrasting styles, proven finishing ability, and plenty at stake, July 10th promises to be another compelling chapter in Tom Keogh's career.
Tale of the Tape
Tom Keogh 🇮🇪
Gym: Warriors Gym
ONE Friday Fights Record: 2–0
Current Form: Seven consecutive knockout victories
Style: Forward-pressure Muay Khao, powerful boxing, heavy low kicks
Finish Rate (ONE): 100% (2 finishes from 2 victories)
Average Bout Duration: 1 minute 29 seconds
Total Ring Time in ONE: 2 minutes 58 seconds
Michael Baranov 🇷🇺
Age: 23
Gym: Tiger Muay Thai
ONE Friday Fights Record: 2–1
Current Form: Knockout victories over Angel Bauza and Shoma
Style: Southpaw, varied attack, strong left body kick, long left knee, composed boxing
Finish Rate (ONE): 66.7% (2 knockouts from 3 fights)
Average Bout Duration: 5 minutes 35 seconds
Total Ring Time in ONE: 16 minutes 47 seconds