Photo via Nick Chapman's Linked In
Nick Chapman on “Absolutely Riveting” Buakaw vs Saenchai BKFC Bout
Nick Chapman is the Founder and CEO of BKFC Asia. He also previously was a former UK1 British Title Cage Rage (UCMMA) World Light Heavyweight champion. Buakaw Banchamek and Saenchai P.K. Saenchai Muaythaigym clash under unique regulations in BKFC Thailand 5.
This bout boasts the tagline ‘Special Rules Bare Knuckle Thai Fight: Legends of Siam’. It all transpires on November 4th at Royal Cliff Hotel Group Pattaya.
Nick Chapman spoke to Dylan Bowker at the kickoff pre-fight presser for Buakaw vs Saenchai. Excerpts from the chat are below.
Nick Chapman
Special rules seem to cover the bare-knuckle aspect and some reduced clinch times here. Could you expound a bit more on some of the special rules for this BKFC Thailand 5 contest though?
“Sure! This Special Rules Bare Knuckle Thai Fight rule set is intense, and will be absolutely riveting. As you know, David Feldman has created a very fast paced style of fighting. Where we prioritize genuine fighting events over mere entertainment spectacles. The new rules are designed to provide an even more exhilarating experience for our devoted fans. Allow me to unveil these special rules for you: We have created this unique rule set for two reasons.”
“1) to encourage fast paced action as you have come to expect from BKFC. 2) to make the fight as even and fair for both fighters as possible. Fighters are allowed to use punches, knees, elbows, kicks, and clinch. The bout will consist of 5 rounds, each lasting for two minutes. If it is a draw after the allotted 5 rounds we will go into another round where there has to be a winner. This fight is too important and will only ever happen once so we must conclude a winner to be the true Legend of Siam.”
BKFC Asia
Nick Chapman continued, “The clinch has been reduced to only 2 to 3 seconds at which time the referee will split the fighters and reset for action immediately. This was at the request of Saenchai as he feels it will even up the strength advantage that Baukaw has. The bout will obviously be contested with bare knuckle as always is the case in BKFC competition.”
“The bout will take place in our patented BKFC squared circle as opposed to the traditional square ring of Muay Thai and Kick Boxing. So as you can see it is effectively a much faster paced and unpredictable style of striking that is designed to determine the true Legend of Siam in the most exciting and fairest way we could think of.”
It seemed like with this bout being rescheduled to BKFC Thailand 5, there was a paramount focus to go through proper channels. To ensure this fight was conducted with the best interest of this great sport at the forefront. How exciting is it to have this newer, forward-thinking combative approach that also pleases the traditionalists of Muay Thai?
“The up-coming fight at the Royal Cliff Beach Hotel in Pattaya holds great potential to not only elevate the excitement of combat sports but also to catapult Thai fighters onto the global stage. This is precisely why we made the decision to hold the event in Thailand. Our objective is to deliver a truly legendary fight in a way that a much larger audience can appreciate.”
Nick Chapman on Buakaw vs Saenchai
Nick Chapman continued, “We want to show the whole world what these two exceptionally talented fighters who are not only exemplary practitioners, but also revered instructors and legends in their own right can do. But in doing this we have to respect and honor the tradition of Muay Thai and the adhere to the requests of the Authorities of the Kingdom of Thailand. They are extremely proud and protective of this great sport and rightly so.”
“We have therefore ensured that we operate this event is within the appropriate laws and guidelines and we have now sought the necessary approval of the Government. We are very excited to be bringing this historic match to the world.”
BKFC Thailand 5
How is BKFC positioned to succeed on the global stage leading into BKFC Thailand 5 as well as beyond? What strategies do you have in place to support its growth and discover emerging talents?
“Golf – Vathanai Vathanakul, Co founder and CEO of BKFC Asia said BKFC Asia possess the potential to flourish rapidly in this continent. We are fully equipped to provide unwavering support, world class production, and actively scout for emerging talents in and around Asia who have the potential to become part of this thrilling journey. We are dedicated to guiding them towards a stable and prosperous career while fostering sustainable growth within this sport.”
“Watch out! We have a special privilege for readers who secure tickets and book at the Royal Cliff Hotel during the match. We’ll keep you posted! This is a historic matchup: Muay Thai icons Buakaw and Saenchai set to ignite the ring at ‘Legends of Siam.’ Don’t miss it, or you’ll regret it!”
