Panpayak's plan for "an epic comeback" against Silviu Vitez at ONE Friday Fights 83: "Winning by knockout"

The long-awaited ONE Championship return of Panpayak Jitmuangnon is finally upon us as striking fans eagerly anticipate his first ring walk in a long time. At 28 years old, the elite Thai striker is considered to be one of the very best strikers of his generation.

However, it has been nearly two years since we last him compete under the ONE Championship banner but this ends at ONE Friday Fights 83. On Oct. 18 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, 'The Angel Warrior' is back to face off with Silviu Vitez and he's looking to make up for lost time.

Striking fans that have watched him compete before already know the elite level that he brings to the table.

However, Panpayak still believes that he needs to remind people who may have forgotten by going out there and making a statement on his return.

He told ONE Championship in a recent interview that he's looking to seal the deal with a finish inside the 'Mecca of Muay Thai':

"My goal for this fight is to make an epic comeback by winning by knockout. I want to show my daughter and everyone that Panpayak is still a great fighter."

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This is a huge fight for Panpayak

With all due respect to Silviu Vitez, the skill level of his next opponent isn't something that would trouble the Thai megastar before his long break.

However, two years away from competition is a long gap for anyone, especially someone that is used to fighting the best in the world. The Thai striker was one of the best in the world but who knows whether he will have declined in recent years and whether he's able to recapture that same form.

We will find out on Oct. 18 when he finally steps back through the ropes to try and ascend back to the very top of the striking world.