Pattaya —
The dreams of Muay Thai fans around the globe came true last Saturday as the world witnessed a bare-knuckle fight between two Muay Thai legends: Buakaw Banchamek and Saenchai P.K. Saenchai.
The historic “BKFC Thailand 5: Legends of Siam” took place right in the world-famous city of Pattaya on October 4th, 2023, featuring several skilled professional fighters competing under no-glove rules.
Made possible by Nick Chapman, founder and CEO of BKFC Asia, the highlight of this highly-anticipated night was the fight between Buakaw Banchamek and Saenchai, both considered living Muay Thai icons in history.
Both men, despite being in their early 40s and long-time friends, engaged fiercely, showcasing their unparalleled skills and determination to outperform each other in the five-round match.
Buakaw, the two-time K-1 world champion, led the charge with relentless low kicks. Saenchai, with an impressive 70-fight undefeated streak, countered with precise kicks, delivering deadly elbows, and unleashing ferocious head kicks. This exchange of devastating strikes further solidified their well-deserved reputations in the world of Muay Thai.
As the rounds progressed, Buakaw’s relentless assault proved more effective, frequently forcing Saenchai into a defensive posture. The sheer power behind Buakaw’s attacks also seemed to overpower his opponent.
Ultimately, Buakaw’s ability to catch and dump Saenchai further emphasized his dominance in all five rounds, earning him the edge in this legendary bout, with the judges’ scores at 49-46, 50-46, 48-47 in favor of Buakaw.
Following the fight, the two buddies, still on good terms, visited a hospital where Buakaw accompanied Saenchai to receive treatment for his broken left index finger, injured during the fight.
In a message to any still doubtful fans, Saenchai said: “I gave it my all. I don’t want people to see it as a matter of size. When I lost, I lost fair and square. Buakaw fought with a true heart. He won with genuine skill. I congratulate him sincerely.”
The original version of this article appeared on our sister website, The Pattaya News, owned by our parent company TPN media.
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