ONE 167: Jo Nattawut says modern-day Muay Thai is more forgiving: “Back in the day, fighters got only a week’s rest”

Jo Nattawut started his Muay Thai journey during 'unforgiving' times but is happy to see the sport evolve into a less strenuous form these days.

The 34-year-old veteran Thai fighter shared this in an interview with Sportsmanor, in line with his scheduled return to action at ONE 167 on June 7 in Bangkok, Thailand.

'Smokin Jo' shared how things were in the sport when he was starting in the 'art of eight limbs' and what the situation is right now. He said:

"Back in the day, fighters got only a week's rest after any fight no matter what the result of the fight was. I am 100 percent happier to compete in a time where resting after a fight is more acceptable."

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Watch the interview below:

At ONE 167, Jo Nattawut returns after competing and winning in his last fight in December.

He will challenge ONE featherweight Muay Thai world champion Tawanchai PK Saenchai for the title in the headlining contest of the event happening at the Impact Arena in Bangkok and airing live and for free in U.S. primetime to North American fans with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription.

It will be a rematch of their tightly fought kickboxing showdown last October, where Tawanchai won by decision.

Jo Nattawut looking to build on win over Luke Lessei in upcoming fight

Jo Nattawut is out to build on the winning form he displayed in his last fight against American Luke Lessei when he takes the ONE Championship Circle again on June 7 at ONE 167 in Thailand.

The seasoned fighter from Nakhon Ratchasima in Thailand will vie for the ONE featherweight Muay Thai world title against reigning champion Tawanchai PK Saenchai.

'Smokin Jo' is coming off an impressive performance against Lessei in December where he stood toe-to-toe with 'The Chef' in their three-round barnburner, which he eventually won by unanimous decision.

The win halted a three-fight slide for Jo Nattawut, something he looks to extend with a victory at ONE 167 while becoming a world champion along the way.

Tawanchai, meanwhile, is out to make it a third successful defense of the world title he seized from former divisional king Petchmorakot Petchyindee in September 2022.

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Edited by Tejas Rathi