Photo via BKFC website
Saenchai on Buakaw BKFC Bout “I Am Number 1!”
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’, on November 4th at Royal Cliff Hotel Group Pattaya.
Saenchai spoke to Dylan Bowker before the legendary collision. Excerpts from the chat are below.
You two have over six hundred stand-up bouts combined. Just how different will bare-knuckle Muay Thai be when you compare it to gloved Muay Thai from what you can tell?
Saenchai: “From my view, not every Muay Thai fighter dare to fight in BKFC match as they will get 100% pain as there is no shockproof like Buakaw said.”
“For me it changeling, also this year BKFC organized a new rule called “BKFC special Rules Bare Knuckle Thai Fight means the fighter will fight without gloved and more better as they could use punch which is more severe to the match. You can’t’ imagine what is going to happened on the stage have to witness with your owned eyes.”
Saenchai
You both have some of the deepest resumes in all of combat sports and have fought a real who’s who. Where does your BKFC Thailand 5 opponent rank compared to past opponents you’ve tested skills against?
Saenchai: “Every opponent is honored and has their own unique way of fighting. I have deep respect for all of them. However, there’s something truly special when it comes to Buakaw. He’s a legend not just in Thailand, but his reputation shines worldwide. He’s a fighter who’s not easily defeated. However, speaking from a fighter’s perspective, I also believe that I am number 1!”
“It’s reassuring to know and understand who holds the top position in this match. Some fans might be curious about how we can compete against each other given our close friendship. As everyone knows, we are indeed close friends, but once we step inside the boxing ring, our professionalism takes precedence. There will be no hesitation in upholding our dignity, and we are fully committed to maintaining the reputation of the sport.”
BKFC Thailand 5
Many see Buakaw as the one bringing the power and strength to this BKFC Thailand 5 fight while Saenchai looks to have edges in speed and overall fight IQ. Is this how the fight breaks down from what each of you can tell?
Buakaw & Saenchai: “Thank you for the interesting questions. Your questions demonstrate that you truly understand and appreciate the sport! We truly appreciate all the incredible support, as always. Both of us value it greatly. As you mentioned, if this were Muay Thai, fans might predict the outcome, but when it comes to Bare Knuckle Fighting, it’s difficult to predict. We both share the curiosity about who will emerge as the champion. Nevertheless, we are both confident that we will claim the championship.”
“Which is why we are entering this fight, to determine who truly deserves to be number one. Our dedication and training have led us to this moment, and we’re fully prepared to leave everything in the ring. It’s a competition that will showcase our skills, determination, and heart. The excitement is building, and we can’t wait to see how it all unfolds. Thank you again for your unwavering support, and we promise to give our best in the upcoming battle.”
Buakaw vs Saenchai
You each credited BKFC as a creative promotion that would be the only ones crazy enough to book a fight like this. How does it feel being a part of a historic bout that could launch a new combat sport altogether?
Buakaw & Saenchai: “We are incredibly proud to be part of such a historic bout that could potentially launch a whole new era in combat sports. Being associated with BKFC’s creative promotion and their willingness to think outside the box is truly an honor. We believe in pushing boundaries and challenging norms, and this opportunity aligns perfectly with our values. It’s a thrilling journey, and we can’t wait to see where it takes us.”
BKFC Asia
Buakaw’s size advantage in this BKFC Thailand 5 fight is in discussion a lot by fans and pundits of the sport. With you being such a proven legend of the sport, does it embolden a certain chip on your shoulder heading into a fight where some see you as the underdog?
“Thanks for the question! It’s fascinating how fans speculate about my chances, but I’m brimming with confidence. In fact, I feel more confident heading into this fight than I have in any other. This match is unique; being friends, we know each other inside-out. Buakaw’s power is legendary, but I’m banking on my speed and fight IQ. I wouldn’t step into the ring if I wasn’t sure of victory. I evaluate, strategize, and commit fully. Get ready for an electrifying showdown!”
It seemed like it angered you that Buakaw signed the BKFC Thailand 5 contract right away while you took a bit to think it over because of how strong your friendship is. Does that motivate you to push your friendship aside and pursue that emphatic KO finish?
“I was surprised that he agreed to the fight so easily yes. I was angered by this and it made me want to fight him even more. He says I signed the contract first which is true but he agreed to the fight first, so who is wrong? Our friendship is still a bedrock of mutual respect, but when we step into the ring, our competitive spirits will take over.”
BKFC
You’ve competed a few times with ropes wrapped around your hands under the Kard Chuek ruleset. Does that help prepare you at all for this Buakaw fight or this a different glove-less sport altogether and there are no transferable elements from that prior sport?
“Yes, I do feel that my experience in Kard Chuek will be a big advantage for me. I have lots of experience in no-gloved fighting. It is very different being hit without gloved. In physical combat, I utilize my spirit, heart, and brain to aim for a knockout against my opponent. I have trained intensively for many years to be well-prepared.”
