WORLD BEAT
(27-3, 19 KOs) before engaging in a thrilling war with Daigo Higa (21- 3-1, 19 KOs). While Takei’s power is undeniable, Tongdee’s team has identified some weaknesses. “I see his biggest weakness as his confidence and stamina,” said Taweesin Laosuwanwat, Yuttapong’s manager and promoter. “In his past fights, he didn’t look confident at all. If we can push him hard, he’ll lose his composure in the ring.” That approach – staying disciplined and forcing Takei to fight at an uncomfortable pace – could be key for Tongdee, who isn’t the typical Thai pressure fighter. Instead, he relies on footwork, lateral movement and a sharp jab, setting him apart from many of his countrymen. Like most Thai fighters, Tongdee started in Muay Thai, where he was known as a “femur” fighter, a term used to describe highly technical boxers in the sport. However, unlike many of his peers, he didn’t immediately transition to professional boxing. Instead, he went through Thailand’s amateur system, representing his country internationally. His amateur pedigree includes a notable split decision victory over two-time Olympic gold medalist and former WBO featherweight titleholder Robeisy Ramirez. “Becoming a world champion in Thailand today is extremely difficult,” Taweesin admitted. “If Yuttapong can do it, it would mean everything – to him, to me, and to all the Thai fans.” The 31-year-old turned pro in 2020 under TL Promotions, building his record against a mix of journeymen, contenders and debutants – a matchmaking strategy typical in Thailand, though that’s a story for another time. His most notable win was a knockout over Filipino prospect Herlan Gomez (5-0, 2 KOs at the time), and his last fight – eight months ago – was a hard-fought 10-round decision victory over a boxer I train, Giuliano Fantone (currently 8-2, 5 KOs). Of course, there’s always the question of inactivity. Eight months
is a long time to sit out before facing a world titleholder, but his team is confident. “Yuttapong has everything he needs to succeed,” Taweesin said. “The first step is to beat Takei and become world champion. After that, we’re happy to fight any elite fighter in the division. He’s [over] 30 now, so we need to fast-track him to the top as soon as possible.” May 28 will be a defining moment for Tongdee, his team and Thai boxing. Facing Takei in his opponent’s backyard is a tough task for Yuttapong, and if he wants to win this fight, he needs to avoid engaging in a firefight. Instead, he must rely on his boxing technique and great footwork to outmaneuver Takei.
Magazine’s junior bantamweight ranking reflects his storied past, but the question remains: How much does he have left? Yamasaki, 26, is looking to bounce back after a TKO loss to power puncher Subaru Murata (9-0, 9 KOs) in October 2024. While he clearly has potential, stepping into the ring with a battle-tested veteran like Rungvisai presents a major challenge. For Rungvisai, the Osaka bout serves as a test at a higher weight class against a younger, fresher opponent. Although he’s already had his time at the pinnacle of the sport, this fight will determine whether the former champion still has enough left to compete at this demanding level. Meanwhile, for Yamasaki, it represents a crucial opportunity to rebound from his recent setback and make his mark against a seasoned veteran. In my opinion, while Srisaket’s journey is nothing short of inspirational – rising from homelessness and overcoming tremendous adversity to become a true legend – it’s apparent that his best days may be behind him. His legacy as a champion is firmly established, but the cumulative wear and tear of years in the ring have taken their toll. It’s a familiar narrative in boxing when fighters go past their prime, and it’s a bittersweet reminder of the harsh realities of the sport.
Srisaket Sor Rungvisai Returns to Japan for 122-Pound Clash
Former Ring Magazine 115-pound champion Srisaket Sor Rungvisai (58- 6-1, 47 KOs) is set to return to action abroad for the first time since his 2022 loss to Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez. Nearly three years have passed since that bout, yet the Thai southpaw has remained active, competing in eight stay-busy fights. Now he steps up in competition as he travels to Japan to face Japanese prospect Kaito Yamasaki (9-1, 5 KOs). Interestingly, Srisaket made his pro debut in Japan against former three- weight world champion Akira Yaegashi back in 2009, and he last fought in the country against Kenji Oba in 2010. In both of his early Japanese outings, he suffered losses before being picked up by Nakornloung Promotion – a turning point that eventually helped him become a legend in his own right. The fight, scheduled for eight rounds at the Sumiyoshi Ward Center in Osaka, will mark Rungvisai’s first bout at 122 pounds – a move up from the division where he made his name. At 38 years old, Rungvisai has shown signs of slowing down, and recent performances have been inconsistent. His No. 8 spot in Ring
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AUSTRALIA BY ANTHONY COCKS As we come to the end of the first quarter of the new year, the Australian boxing broadcast market continues to change.
Srisaket Sor Rungvisai (right) throws down against Juan Francisco Estrada in their 2019 rematch.
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