Sitthichai Reflects On Big Win Over Boutasaa, Excited About Potential ‘Homecoming’ At Lumpinee Stadium
Legendary Thai striker Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong is back to his winning ways.
At ONE on Prime Video 3, “Killer Kid” secured a unanimous decision victory over previously undefeated 23-year-old sensation Mohammed Boutasaa in a high-paced, high-action featherweight kickboxing war.
The performance put the eight-time Kickboxing and Muay Thai World Champion on track following a disappointing March 2022 loss to Chingiz Allazov in the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix Championship Final.
With his back against the wall, Sitthichai dazzled fans at the Axiata Arena, showcasing his thunderous leg kicks and slick counterpunches in a composed, veteran outing.
The fight wasn’t without adversity, though, as Boutasaa opened the second round with a frantic flurry of strikes, forcing the Thai superstar onto the defensive.
Sitthichai would survive, and after the matchup, he gave his foe some hard-earned respect:
“I find out that this guy is tougher than I thought. He is a skilled fighter. He is tall. He has speed that he can attack me at any moment. It was quite difficult for me to defend myself. He is also strong and fresh. I admit that he is quite hard to deal with.”
Whether it’s a fast-rising young star like Boutasaa or a battle-hardened World Champion like himself, “Killer Kid” knows he’ll face no easy opponents inside the Circle.
With that in mind, ONE’s #3-ranked featherweight kickboxing contender treasures each win he picks up in the organization.
Sitthichai said:
“Every victory I get in ONE means a lot to me. Because in my division there are elite fighters from all over the world. They’re good, young, so I can’t overlook or underestimate anyone. I need to be stronger and better in every fight if I want to stay in the top five.”
Sitthichai: ONE Lumpinee Will Showcase Muay Thai To The World
In 2023, ONE Championship will elevate the sport of Muay Thai to new heights, holding weekly events in the storied Lumpinee Stadium. Those bouts will be broadcast live to 154 countries worldwide.
Although Sitthichai currently competes primarily in kickboxing, he started his career in Muay Thai and was a 2014 Lumpinee Stadium World Champion.
He also understands firsthand just how big the ONE Championship platform is – and how it could revolutionize “the art of eight limbs.”
He said:
“ONE Lumpinee will be the first step on a global stage for Thai fighters. There are many good Muay Thai fighters, but they lack good opportunities and stage to perform. This stage will allow them to show their skill in front of the eyes of international audiences. ”
For his part, the 31-year-old, now a winner of 127 professional bouts, would happily return to his roots in the famed Bangkok venue.
Sitthichai added:
“It’s a good opportunity and I’m ready to be part of it. That would be like my homecoming to be back at Lumpinee again after years.”
