Living legend Buakaw Banchamek believes Superbon Singha Mawynn would have found more success against Tawanchai PK Saenchai if they fought under kickboxing rules.
In December 2023, Superbon temporarily left the featherweight kickboxing division to compete in a super-fight for Tawanchai’s ONE featherweight Muay Thai world title. Although the Singha Mawynn affiliate has plenty of Muay Thai experience, he’s prioritized kickboxing throughout his career, putting him at a disadvantage.
The Thai superstars went to war in the ONE Friday Fights 46 main event, with Tawanchai retaining his world title by unanimous decision. The question is, would the result have been different if they fought in kickboxing?
During a video posted on his YouTube channel, Muay Thai great Buakaw had this to say regarding the question:
“They might have different fight styles. Superbon is experienced in kickboxing. So his performance in Muay Thai rules might not be as fast or effective due to the difference in techniques.”
Watch Buakaw's YouTube video where he talked about Tawanchai vs. Superbon below:
Buakaw believes two primary advantages led to Tawanchai PK Saenchai defeating Superbon
Tawanchai PK Saenchai closed as a near two-to-one betting favorite heading into his super-fight against Superbon Singha Mawynn. Although there were many factors involved in the outcome, Muay Thai great Buakaw Banchamek believes two things primarily benefited Tawanchai.
Buakaw had this to say in the previously mentioned video posted on his YouTube channel:
“His decision-making and his speed compared to Tawanchai were slower by two steps. So his flow in attack was disrupted many times.”
Tawanchai PK Saenchai’s win at ONE Friday Fights 46 furthered his status as arguably the most dangerous striker on the ONE Championship roster. As a result, the Thai superstar has several options for super-fights heading into 2024.