Tawanchai talks about Jamal Yusupov’s strengths and weaknesses

ONE featherweight Muay Thai world champion Tawanchai PK. Saenchai is coming into his first fight in 2023 with some serious momentum behind him.

In 2022, he was crowned the world champion and, after producing three great performances throughout the year, was also named as ONE Championship’s Muay Thai Fighter of the year.

At just 23 years old, the sky's the limit for Tawanchai, who is already competing at the very highest level. But despite his recent run of statement victories, the world champion knows that he cannot underestimate any opponent that he steps inside the circle with.

Turkey’s Jamal Yusupov is a worthy contender after producing three consecutive victories under the ONE Championship banner. With wins over Yodsanklai, Samy Sana and Jo Nattawut, Yusupov has earned the No.2 ranking in the division. On February 24, he will look to cut the champion’s reign short.

In an interview with the promotion, the world champion broke down his upcoming opponent’s skill set:

“[Yusupov’s] strength is heavy, strong punches. He hardly has any weaknesses. He’s one of the strongest fighters. You can’t underestimate him in any way.”

Tawanchai vs. Yusupov is scheduled for the co-main event of ONE Fight Night 7 on Prime Video. Live from the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, the event is free to watch via Prime Video for North American viewers.

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“I want to face all of those incredible fighters” - Tawanchai ready to fight the most elite featherweight Muay Thai athletes

Whilst he is well aware of the dangers that come with looking past any opponent, Tawanchai PK.Saenchai is trying to carve out his legacy by facing the best fighters in the world.

The reigning ONE featherweight Muay Thai world champion will look to defend his crown for the very first time on February 24. If successful, he is looking forward to taking on all the challenges that come his way.

Since his ONE Championship debut in May 2021, he has already proven himself to be one of the best strikers on the promotion’s roster. However, he still feels like he has a lot to prove to himself, the other contenders, and the fans.

He told ONE Championship:

“I like being in this weight class. It’s a popular one. It’s pretty massive. There are so many top fighters in the world who are in this weight class. I want to face all of these incredible fighters. It’s a way to prove to myself that I can stand among the top-ranking fighters."

The champion isn’t wrong in pointing out the depth of elite talent in the featherweight division. Having already dethroned Petchmorakot Petchyindee last year, he could be in for one of the toughest runs a champion has ever faced.