ONE FC’s Arnaud Lepont Has “No Excuses” Following Loss To Shinya Aoki

French lightweight fighter Arnaud ‘The Game’ Lepont (9-2) jumped at the chance to headline last October’s ONE FC: Rise of Kings event, opposite the reigning DREAM champ Shinya Aoki.

Despite doing his best to rile the Japanese fighter, like showing up at the weigh-ins with a “How to beat Aoki for Dummies” book, Lepont wasn’t able to get much of a reaction from his opponent for the fans.

Once he, and Aoki finally stepped into the cage, the French fighter was unable to stop a quick takedown from his opponent, ending up being choked out just 85-seconds intot he first round.

Speaking to MMAMania.com , Lepont has no regrets about how the fight went down and is looking for a little redemption the next time he steps back inside the ONE FC cage.

Do you have any regrets about taking the fight with Aoki?
I have none, James! Facing your dreams and fears is what make the difference between a dreamer and a “doer.” I lost a battle, not the war. I thank him for his sportsmanship and helping me open my eyes on my weakness. There is no doubt that I will be back stronger and more dangerous than ever. There is no shame by losing against the best 155-pound fighter in all Asia.

Did nerves affect you at all on fight night?
Not at all. I was feeling great. I was sharp and ready. I have no excuses. I was maybe too confident and I was sure that he would come for at least a round of boxing as he said in the press. I was not thinking of the takedown. It’s my fault. I take that as a rough lesson.

How have you enjoyed fighting for ONE FC?
Do I like fighting in the biggest MMA show in Asia ? Fighting at ONE FC is a blessing and I will always prepare and do my best to put a show for the fans. I was already known in Asia when I joined ONE FC, but this main event just gave me monstrous popularity with the fans. Fighting in Singapore Indoor Stadium was an incredible feeling. I hope to fight in other countries thanks to ONE FC. I am upset of my last performance and I am just thinking about redemption, I am certain that Victor is planning lot of surprises for 2013.