ONE 170: Tawanchai Anticipates A War Against Compatriot Superbon

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The second chapter of the high-profile rivalry between two ONE World Champions, Tawanchai PK Saenchai and Superbon, is just days away. On Friday, 24 January, the Thai pair will clash for Tawanchai's ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Championship in a rematch at Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

They first faced each other in the main event of ONE Friday Fights 46, where Tawanchai defended his gold belt in a closely contested five-round affair by majority decision. It was unfamiliar territory for Superbon, who up until then mainly competed under kickboxing rules.

Since that match, Superbon returned to Muay Thai and knocked out Jo Nattawut, who gave Tawanchai a tough challenge. Even though Tawanchai is aware of #1-ranked Muay Thai contender's skills, he claims it will be quite easy to read his moves.

"The second fight against Superbon should be just as fun as the first one because Superbon should be more familiar with Muay Thai. I'm ready," the PK Saenchai Muaythaigym superstar said ahead of their rematch at ONE 170.

"Superbon's strengths are his sharp eye, razor attacks, and good timing. But now, I can read him like a book. I know every trick he's going to bring to me, but I won't say them now."

Both fighters began their martial arts journey in Muay Thai, but Superbon transitioned to kickboxing, achieving international fame. Tawanchai, on the other hand, stuck with his country's national sport, becoming a global sensation with his cool-headed yet equally dangerous fighting style.

The reigning champion anticipates an exciting bout, but he isn't fazed by his compatriot's experience and skills. Now, Tawanchai is on an eight-fight win streak and determined not to lose his next fight or belt. He also predicts it will be an epic contest.

"I can't predict this fight because this is a matchup between fighters of the same level whose skills are on par. But, I still don't want to lose. I absolutely can't lose," he said.

"What I want to prove in this fight is that I want to make everyone who comes to watch it is entertained. It'll be absolutely incredible. This fight's going to be a barnburner."