KUCHING: Muay thai legend, Buakaw Banchamek, continues to defy time, crediting discipline, endurance and sacrifice as the pillars behind his longevity in the sport.
Set to make his Malaysian debut at the Muay Thai T-Fight All Star tournament at Titiwangsa Stadium, Kuala Lumpur tomorrow (April 24), the 44-year-old said sustaining a long career in the sport requires constant commitment amid an ever-changing competitive landscape.
“For me, muay thai is something I really love. I like watching and competing, and that’s why I keep learning, training and ensuring my body is always at its best,” he said at the Muay Thai T-Fight All Star press conference today.
Buakaw added that readiness is key every time he steps into the ring, stressing that preparation underpins confidence and performance.
“Every time I step into the ring, I must be prepared. If not, I won’t feel confident to fight,” he said.
Looking ahead to his main bout against China’s Meng Gao Feng, the veteran expressed confidence in adapting to his opponent, drawing from years of experience against diverse fighting styles.
“As for my opponent, I know him and have seen him before. I have also faced many fighters from China, so I understand the different fighting styles,” he said.
The event will also feature Malaysian fighters including Umar Al-Matin, Mohd Rafi Abdul Manaf (Mat Ropi) and Hasril Nazmi (Nazmie Dancing Boy).
T-Fight founder, Shamsueffendi Mohammad, said the tournament aims to elevate the sport locally while providing a platform to showcase Malaysian talent on a larger stage.
“We have received tremendous support from Indonesia, Europe and Thailand, and hope to give fans the best,” he said.
Starring in the same tournament as the Thai legend is Sarawak muaythai fighter, Muhammad Nur Aiman “Kenyalang” Kamaruddin, who is set to clash against Aiman Fight Lab as the first card of the T-Fight spectacle.
