WORLD BEAT
THAILAND BY WASIM MATHER Home crowd, home disbelief Thailand has always fascinated me. It’s more than the land of temples and bustling street food markets – it’s a country that breathes combat sports. Having spent over a decade immersed in its boxing culture, I’ve seen how Muay Thai dominates the narrative. But to overlook Thailand’s boxing pedigree would be a mistake. This small nation has produced 53 world titleholders. Yet, in recent years, boxing in Thailand has struggled to reclaim its golden era. With just three major promoters carrying the torch, opportunities for Thai fighters to shine on the world stage have dwindled. Last year, however, offered a glimmer of hope. Five Thai fighters challenged for world titles, but only one – Panya Pradabsri, or Petchmanee CP Freshmart (44-2, 27 KOs) – came out victorious. Pradabsri’s story is one of dedication and resilience. The former WBC 105-pound champion lost his title to Japan’s Yudai Shigeoka in 2023. After that setback, he moved up to the 108-pound division in search of redemption. His opportunity came when Kenshiro Teraji vacated the WBC junior flyweight title. Standing in Pradabsri’s way was Carlos Canizales, a seasoned Venezuelan who had challenged Teraji for the same belt earlier in 2024 but lost a close majority decision, making him even more determined this time. When Pradabsri’s trainer, Chatchai Sasakul – a former flyweight champion I’ve worked with closely over the years – shared the news of the bout, I felt the seriousness of the moment. This wasn’t just about another world title fight. The setting – Rajadamnern Stadium – made
Even loyal fans in Bangkok believed Venezuelan veteran Carlos Canizales (right) did enough to outpoint Panya Pradabsri.
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