Image: Jeremy Hammer (Foremost Media).

National Pump Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Wil Hahn believes you can’t count out four-time Monster Energy AMA Supercross Champion, Ryan Villopoto, for the SX1 win this weekend at the 2016 AUS-X Open inside Qudos Bank Arena.

Retiring from professional competition in 2015, Villopoto’s Sydney appearance will mark his first professional race since his retirement.

Fellow American, Hahn, admits he would not bet against the experienced Kawasaki-backed rider claiming victory during the double-header season finale on 12-13 November.

“I think everyone has a big question mark on him, but you never doubt a guy like RV,” Hahn told MotoOnline.com.au. “He’s won a lot of titles and a lot of races, so he’s not someone that you can put any doubt on being able to come here and just show up and win. He’s someone I definitely wouldn’t bet against.”

Hahn also looks forward to having the opportunity to ride under the same awning as Villopoto in Sydney, admitting the prospect of sharing information and racing on the same track again is exciting.

“I’ve never been pitted out of the same truck as him, so that’s something that I’m excited about being be able to talk and share lines all day,” he said. “I wish the best for him and I hope he has a good time, I’m excited to be on the same race track as him again.”

Hahn enters this weekend’s event third overall in points, 17 markers behind series leader, Justin Brayton, and just six behind defending champion, Dan Reardon.