Tawanchai PK Saenchai always wants to put on a show for the fans, and he is looking forward to what he will produce with his opponent in his next outing, which is shaping up to be a potentially electrifying matchup.

The Thai star will defend his ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Championship against veteran ‘Smokin’ Jo Nattawut at the main event of ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II this Friday, June 7, inside the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

Tawanchai PK Saenchai on Nattawut’s strengths and his preparations

Speaking to ONE Championship ahead of his next contest, the PK Saenchai Muay Thai Gym representative shared his admiration for his upcoming opponent as he broke down Nattawut’s strengths, observing that the latter’s power was his most dangerous weapon.

“I have always followed Jo’s fight in Muay Thai in ONE. He is considered one of the best. He is a boxer with heavy punches and is very strong. His most dangerous weapons are his heavy hands. He has good combinations, but I have already prepared a plan to deal with it,” he said.

But the 25-year-old was confident in his abilities and felt he had prepared well for the bout, stating, “I have focused on building a strong body, and as for the brain, I am already smart enough, so I will adapt in the ring.”

Tawanchai has a good idea of how tough an opponent ‘Smokin’ Jo can be. At ONE Fight Night 15 back in October 2023, the pair locked horns in an intense featherweight kickboxing matchup that went all three rounds. The contest was so tight that fans were at the edge of their seats as the winner was announced.

Tawanchai is hoping for a ‘fun fight’ against Smokin’ Jo

In their rematch, they will compete under Muay Thai rules, where Tawanchai is the king of the division. Asked if he would be gunning for a knockout victory, the 25-year-old said it’s always a goal. However, he doesn’t want to underestimate the toughness of the Nattawut.

Instead, he’s prepared for both a quick victory and a five-round war, if need be. The Muay Thai star admitted that while he was going into the bout with the intent to finish his opponent, he preferred not to make any strong declarations that may not pan out and was hoping for an “exciting battle” when they meet in the ring again.

“Every time I step up on the stage, I want a bonus. Everyone wants to knock their opponent out. But let’s see what will happen in the ring. It won’t be easy to win by knockout in this fight. I guess that this fight might go the distance. If I say someone is going to get knocked out, it would seem like I’m exaggerating a lot. Let’s wait to see an exciting battle,” he added.

What are your predictions for Tawanchai vs. Nattawut at ONE 167? Let us know in the comments section below.