Kongthoranee's Tattoo Journey Marks Part Of Fighter's Identity

LockerRoom Team

29 Apr 2025

ONE Championship's #3-ranked flyweight Muay Thai contender Kongthoranee Sor Sommai views his extensive tattoos as both artistic expression and a core part of his fighting identity.

The 28-year-old rising star is preparing for his highly anticipated rematch against former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nong-O Hama on May 3 inside Bangkok's historic Lumpinee Stadium at ONE Fight Night 31.

Speaking with ONE before the clash, Kongthoranee shared insights about his body-art journey, which began in his teenage years.

"I got my first tattoo when I was around 16 or 17 years old. Like a teenager, I thought that it would make me look bad***," Kongthoranee said.

With nearly 100 professional bouts behind him, his appearance has evolved alongside his fighting prowess. His first ink—a traditional koi fish on his leg—was chosen simply because he liked the way it looked.

That look is partly why he believes fans readily know him when competing.

"It's my identity. I think people remember me partly because of my tattoos," Kongthoranee said.

A chest tattoo of a dragon may be his most identifiable piece to date. It was another choice simply based on how cool he thought it looked.

"On my chest is a dragon tattoo. The reason I got it was because I thought the design was cool. I didn't think about any meaning. I just wanted it to be cool," Kongthoranee said.

Not all Kongthoranee's tattoos are merely decorative, however. His favorite piece holds profound personal significance—a portrait of Sommai Sakulmetta, owner of the Sor Sommai gym.

"The reason I like it the most is because he is the person who has done me the most favor," Kongthoranee said.

This tribute reflects the deep bond between fighter and mentor, particularly meaningful as Kongthoranee prepares for a high-stakes main event rematch on Saturday.

ONE Fight Night 31 will be broadcast live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Select 2 at 5:30 a.m. India Standard Time (IST) on Saturday, May 3.