Nong-O Hama’s recent victory serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to one’s roots. While evolution and innovation are essential in any sport, there are times when embracing the original style can lead to the greatest success
Nong-O Gaiyanghadao stands as a shining example of excellence in Muay Thai. His remarkable career is a testament to his skill, determination, and unwavering commitment to his craft.
He is truly a living legend whose legacy will endure for generations to come.
Despite facing setbacks, including a loss to Jonathan Haggerty in 2023, Nong-O’s legacy in Muay Thai remains unparalleled. His dedication, skill, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire martial artists worldwide.
As Nong-O continues to write his story in the annals of Muay Thai history, his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest champions is already firmly established.
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Table of Contents
Nong-O Hama: Future of a Muay Thai Legend
Muay Thai legend Nong-O Hama, a former multi-time ONE bantamweight Muay Thai world champion, reflects on his career, acknowledging that his prime years are behind him.1
Despite this realization, he remains confident in his ability to make one more solid run at the gold.
Nong-O Hama’s Recent Challenges and Triumphs
At 37 years old, Nong-O has faced significant challenges in his recent fights, losing two out of his last three matches in epic fashion.
However, a recent victory over young star Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai has rejuvenated his spirits. If not for this win, Nong-O might have already considered retirement.
A Humble Perspective on Age and Experience
In a recent interview with Sportsmanor, Nong-O shared his perspective on his career. He acknowledges that age has caught up with him and is trying to approach his fights with the wisdom and experience that come with his years in the sport.
Nong-O elaborated, stating, “The reason that I’m grounded is because I’m getting old. I’m not a teenager anymore. When I win, I don’t go for a big celebration anymore.”
Nong-O Hama’s Historic Reign as Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion
Nong-O is renowned as the most dominant bantamweight Muay Thai world champion in history. He claimed the inaugural gold with a five-round unanimous decision over Han Zi Hao in February 2019.
His reign saw him defend the belt successfully seven times over four years until encountering Jonathan Haggerty from the United Kingdom in the middle of last year.
Despite recent setbacks, Nong-O remains determined to challenge the elite of the elite in the martial arts world. He is eager to continue proving himself among the world’s best martial artists, showcasing his enduring skill and dedication to the sport.
Nong-O’s journey is a testament to the resilience and determination of a true martial arts legend. As he navigates the challenges of aging in a demanding sport, his legacy continues to inspire fans and fellow athletes alike.
Nong-O Hama Triumphs with Traditional Tactics Against Kulabdam: “I Chose to Embrace My Roots”
Returning to Roots: Nong-O Hama’s Winning Strategy
In the ever-evolving world of combat sports, fighters often seek to innovate and adapt their styles to stay ahead of the competition.
However, for the legendary Nong-O Hama, a return to his traditional roots proved to be the key to his recent victory over Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai.
Embracing the Original Style
In an exclusive interview with Sportsmanor, Nong-O shared his insight into his recent success, attributing it to a decision to revert to his original fighting style.
He stated, “What you saw is my original style, me at my best. Also, my game plan as well. You can see the confidence is coming back because I decided to stick to my original style.”
Victory at ONE Friday Fights 58
Nong-O’s decision to embrace his roots paid off in a spectacular fashion when he faced the rising star ‘Left Meteorite’ Kulabdam Sor Jor Piek Uthai at ONE Friday Fights 58 on April 5th.
Despite Kulabdam’s impressive skills and potential, Nong-O’s return to his traditional tactics proved to be a winning strategy, leading him to victory by unanimous decision.
Nong-O Gaiyanghadao: Bio
The Living Legend of Muay Thai
Nong-O Gaiyanghadao, born on November 10, 1986, is a revered figure in the world of Muay Thai.2
Formerly known as Nong-O Sit Or and Nong-O Gaiyanghadaogym, he now goes by the name Nong-O Hama MuayThai or simply Nong-O Hama.
His journey in the world of combat sports has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by triumphs and accolades that have cemented his status as a legend.
Early Life
Growing up in Thailand, Nong-O was exposed to Muay Thai at a young age. His passion for the sport was ignited early on, and he began training diligently to hone his skills.
His hard work paid off, and he soon started competing professionally, showcasing his exceptional talent in the ring.
Nong-O’s skill and determination quickly caught the attention of the Muay Thai world, and he rose through the ranks with remarkable speed.
His technical prowess and strategic brilliance set him apart from his peers, and he soon became a force to be reckoned with in the ring.
Dominance in the Ring
- Throughout his career, Nong-O has been a dominant force in the world of Muay Thai.
- He has competed in various weight classes and has emerged victorious in numerous high-profile fights. His impressive record speaks for itself, with victories over some of the sport’s biggest names.
- Nong-O’s list of achievements is extensive, with multiple championship titles to his name.
- He is a seven-division Muay Thai champion, having won titles in Thailand, Rajadamnern Stadium, Lumpinee Stadium, and ONE Championship. His accolades are a testament to his skill, dedication, and sheer talent in the sport.
- In 2015, Nong-O took a hiatus from Muay Thai, during which he served as a Muay Thai instructor at Evolve MMA in Singapore.
- However, his love for the sport drew him back, and he made a triumphant comeback at ONE Championship: Heroes of Honor in April 2018. Since then, he has continued to impress audiences with his outstanding performances in the ring.
Current Status and Legacy
As of January 16, 2024, Nong-O is ranked #2 and #3 respectively in the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai and Kickboxing rankings.
His legacy in the world of Muay Thai is secure, and he continues to inspire a new generation of fighters with his skill, dedication, and unwavering passion for the sport.
Nong-O Gaiyanghadao: Career
A Phenomenal Journey Through Muay Thai
Nong-O Gaiyanghadao, formerly known as Apichet Khotanan, hails from Sakon Nakhon Province in the Isan region of Thailand. Born with a fighting spirit, Nong-O had his first taste of Muay Thai at the tender age of 9.3
His journey into the world of martial arts began when he witnessed one of his neighbors immersed in rigorous training. Intrigued and inspired, he accepted an invitation to train, and within a month, he was ready for his first bout.
The Rise of a Champion: 2008-2009
- In 2008, Nong-O faced Kōji Okuyama in Tokyo, Japan, at the Keio Plaza hotel. With a spectacular left elbow strike in the third round, Nong-O secured a knockout victory.
- Later that year, on December 9, 2008, he battled Wutidet Lukprabath at Lumpinee Stadium, triumphing by decision after five intense rounds.
- The following year, Nong-O’s prowess continued to shine. In January 2009, at the Yoyogi National Gymnasium, he faced Tomoaki Suehiro in a thrilling match.
- Nong-O dominated the fight, knocking Suehiro down twice in the first round with powerful hooks, leading to a TKO victory. His exceptional performance earned him a floral tribute from Shinya Aoki.
- Later in 2009, Nong-O faced Trijak Sitjomtrai, the reigning featherweight champion sanctioned by the Professional Boxing Association of Thailand. Despite Trijak’s formidable reputation, Nong-O emerged victorious by a majority decision after five hard-fought rounds.
- In December 2009, Nong-O achieved another milestone by defeating Petboonchu F.A. Group for the Lumpinee Stadium title in the Super featherweight (130 lbs) category.
- His victory by decision crowned him the new champion, solidifying his status as a rising star in the Muay Thai world.
Challenges and Triumphs: 2010-2013
- In 2010, Nong-O faced Singdam Kiatmoo9 in the Yod Muay Champions Cup 60kg tournament in Japan. Despite a valiant effort, the match ended in a draw after five rounds.
- In a subsequent extra round, Nong-O lost by split decision. Later that year, he challenged Saenchai for the Lumpinee Stadium and WMC titles but was defeated.
- Nong-O’s determination and skill were recognized in 2011 when he was honored as the 2010 Boxer of the Year at the Society of Friends of Sportswriters Awards Night in Bangkok.
- The year 2012 was marked by several significant victories for Nong-O. He triumphed over Singdam in February and F16 Rajanon in March.
- Although he suffered a close defeat to Singdam in May, he bounced back with a win over Petboonchu FA Group in June. Despite facing tough competition, Nong-O continued to showcase his resilience and skill in the ring.
- In 2013, Nong-O achieved a significant milestone by winning the Lumpinee lightweight belt against Singdam Kiatmuu9.
- His victory highlighted his dominance in the sport and solidified his reputation as a formidable Muay Thai fighter.
Return to the Spotlight: ONE Championship
After a brief hiatus, Nong-O returned to competitive Muay Thai in 2018. He joined Evolve in Singapore as a coach and made his comeback at ONE Championship: Heroes of Honor in April 2018. He defeated Fabio Pinca via unanimous decision, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination.
In October 2018, Nong-O returned to Thailand to compete at ONE Championship: Kingdom of Heroes, where he defeated Mehdi Zatout, further cementing his status as a top contender in the sport.
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Dominance in ONE Championship: 2019-2023
- In February 2019, Nong-O achieved a career milestone by defeating Han Zihao to become the inaugural ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion at ONE Championship: Clash of Legends in Bangkok.
- He successfully defended his title against Hiroaki Suzuki in May 2019, winning by unanimous decision.
- Later in 2019, Nong-O defended his title against Brice Delval at ONE Championship: Immortal Triumph in Ho Chi Minh City, winning by split decision. He continued his winning streak by defeating Saemapetch Fairtex via fourth-round knockout in a thrilling bout.
- In 2020, Nong-O faced Rodlek P.K. Saenchaimuaythaigym at ONE Championship: Collision Course, successfully defending his title with a third-round knockout.
- In 2022, Nong-O defended his title against Felipe Lobo at ONE: X, winning by knockout in the third round. He continued his winning streak by defeating Liam Harrison at ONE on Prime Video 1, securing a first-round victory.
