Prajanchai Defends Strawweight Muay Thai Title Against Barboza in Bangkok

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Reigning two-sport king Prajanchai successfully defended his ONE Strawweight Muay Thai World Title against British challenger Barboza in a thrilling showdown at ONE Fight Night 28. The event, held at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium on Friday, February 7, aired live in U.S. primetime.

The main event featured a clash of styles, with Prajanchai’s technical boxing and Barboza’s devastating low kicks taking center stage. Barboza, known for his ruthless knockout power, looked to establish himself as a global superstar but faced a formidable opponent in Prajanchai, who boasts nearly 400 career fights.

Prajanchai, also the ONE Strawweight Kickboxing World Champion, demonstrated his vast experience and tactical brilliance. He used his laser-like jabs and pinpoint accurate elbows to control the pace of the fight. By round three, Barboza showed signs of wear, battered by Prajanchai’s relentless pressure.

The defining moment came in round four when Prajanchai landed a precise elbow, damaging Barboza’s eye. Referee Olivier Coste paused the action, and after consulting the ringside doctor, waved off the bout at 1:55 of the fourth round, declaring Prajanchai the winner by TKO.

“I’ve been following Prajanchai for years,” Barboza said in a pre-fight interview. “He’s a legend of the sport, but I’m here to take his place.” Despite his admiration, Barboza vowed to finish the fight with a knockout, offering a glimpse into his hunger for the title.

Prajanchai’s victory earned him a $100,000 performance bonus from ONE Chairman and CEO, solidifying his status as one of the greatest strikers in the sport. The win also marked his 399th career victory, further cementing his legacy in Muay Thai.

The event also featured other high-stakes matchups, including former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion moving down to flyweight and the ONE debuts of several rising stars. The card showcased the depth and talent of ONE Championship’s roster, delivering an action-packed evening for fans worldwide.