Former ONE bantamweight kickboxing king, Petchtanong Petchfergus, is set to return from an extended absence. He faces Alaverdi Ramazanov at ONE Friday Fights 68: Prajanchai vs. Di Bella, taking place on June 28 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. Petchtanong has been sidelined since July 2023 after testing for a banned substance that led him to relinquish his title and be suspended for a year.

However, Petchtanong is ready to move past his mistakes and return to action. To prepare for his comeback, he is training with the Muay Thai legend and former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion, Nong-O Hama.

Petchtanong embraces training with Nong-O Hama

Nong-O Hama faced a tough year in 2023, suffering back-to-back losses to Jonathan Haggerty and Nico Carrilo. However, he showed his resilience by bouncing back with a win over Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai at ONE Friday Fights 58 in April 2024. Now, he continues to be a valuable asset supporting Petchtanong Petchfergus.

In a recent Instagram reel uploaded by Petchtanong, he showcases a training session where Nong-O delivers punches to his abs. The caption reads, “Hit Me Harder!” Despite taking punches, the 38-year-old keeps a smile on his face and appears to be in great shape.

While he was out of action, Petchtanong Petchfergus maintained his impressive health and physique. He credits his unwavering determination and a long-standing commitment to a healthy lifestyle for his continued well-being.

Petchtanong’s commitment to health ahead of ONE Friday Fights 68

38-year-old Petchtanong Petchfergus faced a year-long suspension for testing positive for a banned substance and lost his precious World Title. Despite the setback, he kept training diligently.

Petchtanong’s dedication to a healthy lifestyle is evident. “I try to eat healthily, no oil, no sugar, and every two years I stop eating meat. I don’t drink, I don’t smoke, I just work out,” he was quoted as saying by SCMP.

However, this upcoming fight presents a unique challenge. With a nine-year age gap between him and his opponent, Petchtanong will need to draw on all his experience and discipline.

Petchtanong’s last win came against Hiroki Akimoto at ONE 163 in November 2022, where he claimed the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title. Now, he is eager to return to the ring and beat a fellow former titleholder in the division, Alaverdi Ramazanov. This clash between two former champions will be a treat for the fans. A win for either fighter could be a big step towards a shot at the belt they both once held. 

Who are you rooting for? Petchtanong  or “Babyface Killer”? Let us know in the comments.