Tawanchai and Superbon Deliver a Classic Showdown which thrills the fans

31 December 2023

In a fitting conclusion to an exceptional year for ONE Championship's Muay Thai divisions, the eagerly awaited bout between ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Champion Tawanchai PK Saenchai and top-ranked contender Superbon Singha Mawynn stole the spotlight. The showdown of Thai megastars headlined ONE Friday Fights 46, an unforgettable event that took place on December 22 at the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, leaving fans in awe and cementing its status as an instant classic available on pay-per-view.

The five-round spectacle showcased the essence of high-level Muay Thai, featuring a captivating display of smart counter-attacks, gritty exchanges, and strategic manoeuvres. Tawanchai, a 24-year-old phenom, commenced his second World Title defence with calculated push kicks from the outside, strategically limiting Superbon's ability to unleash his renowned high kicks.

However, the Singha Mawynn representative swiftly adapted, altering his approach by focusing on slashing elbows against Tawanchai. Contrary to expectations, Superbon demonstrated proficiency with these elbow strikes, reigniting an element many believed the kickboxing great had abandoned. Tawanchai, true to his reputation, responded in kind, delivering skull-rattling elbows that showcased his exceptional skill.

As the bout unfolded, Superbon intensified his attacks with high kicks, each attempt bringing him closer to his opponent. Yet, Tawanchai's exceptional fight IQ became apparent as he adeptly evaded these high kicks, smirking while countering with precise punches that stung his compatriot.

Tawanchai's relentless aggression kept him narrowly ahead on the scorecards throughout the 15-minute encounter. Ultimately, he secured the majority decision victory, earning the approval of two out of three judges. With this monumental win, the PK Saenchai representative successfully defended his ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Title and bolstered his professional record to an impressive 132-31-2.

Post-fight, Tawanchai hinted at a potential move to kickboxing, expressing his desire for the kickboxing belt during a conversation with commentator Mitch Chilson. The champion's ambitions and his stellar performance against Superbon have undoubtedly set the stage for an exciting chapter in his martial arts journey, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his future endeavours.