Tawanchai PK Saenchai Not Blinded By Fame In ONE Championship - 'Don’t Forget Your True Self'

When you look at the formidable fighter that is ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Champion Tawanchai PK Saenchai, what you see is what you get. The stoic Thai is as humble inside the ring as he is outside of it.

He's made sure to never let ego get the best of him, which has enabled him to reach superstardom. And he'll carry that philosophy with him into his ONE 167 World Title fight against Jo Nattawut on Saturday, 8 June, inside Bangkok, Thailand's Impact Arena.

It won't be the first time the two Thais meet. They contested under kickboxing rules at ONE Fight Night 15 in October of 2023, where Tawanchai edged out his compatriot.

Before reaching ONE Championship, Tawanchai's income from fighting was a pittance. So he fought hard and fought often. But under the microscope of the world's largest martial arts organization, he dedicates his life to becoming the best on a full-time basis. And he makes sure to never forget his roots.

"ONE Championship has changed my life in a very good way. My life is better and more comfortable. But I'm still just acting normal. I don't see myself as a celebrity or someone special. I'm still the same Tawanchai who eats street food as usual," the PK Saenchai Muaythaigym standout said.

"It's important not to get blinded by the spotlight and always remember that behind an able man, there are always other able men. Fame doesn't stay for long. Don't forget your true self."

As much as Tawanchai's career is about his own success, he also wants to use it as a platform to inspire those around the world to chase their goals - no matter the circle they're in.

The 25-year-old is a leader at the forefront of the Muay Thai revolution around the world. Tawanchai knows that his fan base evolves with every victory. And given the fire he overcame against Nattawut in their first encounter, he believes people will take inspiration from him.

"I want my fame to become an inspiration for more people to exercise. When some people see my body or see my exercise clips on social media, I want them to feel excited after watching and to go exercise to make their body strong, too," Tawanchai said.

"I feel very proud to be a part of making everyone turn to watching Muay Thai because Muay Thai is the heritage of the nation and everyone should support it."