Tawanchai P.K. Saenchai is one of his generation’s most exhilarating Muay Thai fighters. Renowned for his lightning-fast strikes and precise techniques, he has rapidly gained recognition on the international stage. In this article, we delve into his background and various facets of his life to gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable athlete.
Tawanchai’s Background
Tawanchai P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym was born on April 7, 1999, in Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand. He began training in Muay Thai at the young age of 7 or 8.
When Tawanchai was seven, he watched Muay Thai fights at Thepprasit Stadium in Pattaya. This experience sparked his passion for the sport, and soon after, he began competing. He quickly dominated the local scene and earned higher paychecks. By the age of 14, he made his debut at the renowned Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.
At just 19, Tawanchai was recognized by several Thai sports organizations, marking a major achievement in his career. Three years later, he joined ONE Championship, where he demonstrated his abilities on the global stage, competing for his first world title.
7 Interesting Facts About Tawanchai
While Tawanchai quickly became a successful Muay Thai fighter, his journey began in a unique and compelling way. His personal life also holds some intriguing details. Here are a few captivating facts about Tawanchai’s life and career:
1. A Unique Start: First Fight at a Beachside Bar
Tawanchai’s Muay Thai journey began in an unexpected place—a beachside bar in Pattaya, where he fought under the name Jatukam Petchrungruang. Despite the unusual setting, he soon progressed to competing in children’s boxing across Chonburi Province and the Eastern region of Thailand. As his reputation grew, he expanded to the Northeastern region and, by age 14, made his debut at the prestigious Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, winning by unanimous decision.
2. A Major Move: Joining P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym
After completing lower secondary school, Jatukam made a pivotal move to Bangkok, joining the renowned P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym. Here, he adopted the name “Tawanchai” and began refining his skills under expert mentorship, marking a defining chapter in his Muay Thai career.
3. Rapid Rise: Early Success in Muay Thai
Tawanchai quickly established himself as a rising star. In February 2017, at just 18, he claimed the Thailand 126-pound championship with a victory over Wayunoi Petchkiatpetch at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium. He then secured the 140-pound title from the Muay Thai Nai Khanomtom Association.
2018 was a breakthrough year for Tawanchai, with multiple honors, including the Siam Sports Award for Best Muay Thai Fighter, Lumpinee Boxing Stadium’s Fighter of the Year, and Thailand’s Sports Authority’s Professional Muay Thai Fighter of the Year. His career reached new heights when he signed up for the ONE Championship in October 2020.
4. The Star Southpaw: Tawanchai’s Signature Fighting Style
Known for his powerful left strikes, Tawanchai earned the nickname “The Star Southpaw.” The Thai press also dubbed him “The Beautiful Left” for his precision and his good looks. Initially shy about the nickname, he has since embraced it as a reflection of his skills and growing popularity.
5. Inspired by a Legend: Saenchai P.K.
Tawanchai draws inspiration from Muay Thai legend Saenchai P.K., whose influence has profoundly shaped his fighting style. As both a mentor and role model, Saenchai has motivated Tawanchai to aim for excellence. Tawanchai admires Saenchai’s unmatched technique and innovative approach, which he strives to emulate in his own career.
6. Lethal Weapon: The Left Kick
Tawanchai’s left kick is considered one of the most dangerous in the sport, capable of shifting the momentum of any fight. As a southpaw, his swift and powerful left kicks have taken down many high-level opponents. Beyond his kicking skills, Tawanchai has worked to refine his boxing, enhancing both his speed and precision. In 2020, he showcased his versatility by earning a bronze medal in the Amateur Boxing Championship in Thailand.
7. A Passion for Sacred Amulets
Outside the ring, Tawanchai is an enthusiastic collector of sacred amulets, with over a hundred in his collection. Among them, the one he cherishes most was gifted to him by his first Muay Thai teacher when he was just 12. This amulet holds deep sentimental value, symbolizing his dedication to the sport and the enduring bond with his mentor.
Tawanchai’s Fight Record
Tawanchai has established an outstanding fight record, achieving numerous victories in both local and international arenas. His accomplishments are a testament to his dedication, skill, and relentless commitment to Muay Thai.
Professional Boxing Association of Thailand (PAT)
- 2017 Thailand 126 lbs Champion
Lumpinee Stadium
- 2018 Lumpinee Stadium Fighter of the Year
ONE Championship Highlights
- October 2020: Tawanchai officially signed with ONE Championship, marking the beginning of his international career.
- May 2021: He made his ONE Championship debut, defeating Irish fighter Sean Clancy with a head kick in the third round.
- January 2022: Tawanchai claimed a first-round knockout victory over Saemapetch Fairtex, showcasing his precision and power.
- June 2022: He continued his knockout streak, defeating Niclas Larsen in the second round.
- September 2022: Tawanchai seized the ONE Muay Thai Featherweight World Title, beating Petmorakot Petchyindee by unanimous decision to become the new champion.
- February 2023: In his first title defense, Tawanchai knocked out Turkish challenger Jamal Yusupov with a devastating leg kick just 49 seconds into the first round.
- August 2023: Tawanchai made his kickboxing debut at ONE Championship, defeating Georgian fighter Davit Kiria in the third round after a left kick fractured Kiria’s arm.
- October 2023: He secured a unanimous decision victory against Jo Nattawut in a kickboxing bout.
- December 2023: Tawanchai won another unanimous decision, this time against Superbon Singha Mawynn.
- June 2024: In a highly anticipated rematch, he defeated Jo Nattawut once again, this time by majority decision.
In summary, Tawanchai’s impressive record across multiple combat sports highlights his versatility and dominance, solidifying his place among Muay Thai’s elite fighters. Known for his exceptional talent, discipline, and powerful fighting style, Tawanchai P.K. Saenchai stands out as a key figure in the sport. With a bright future ahead, he is undoubtedly a fighter to watch as he continues to make his mark on the Muay Thai world.
