Panpayak Jitmuangnon will return to the ONE Championship stage for the first time since late 2022 at ONE Friday Fights 83 on Friday, October 18. It will be the first time fans have seen the talented striker on the global stage since his narrow split-decision loss to Superlek Kiatmoo9.
Panpayak will square off against Silviu “Hitman” Vitez in a flyweight Muay Thai contest. “The Angel Warrior” opened up about why he took an extended break from the sport and is now ready to step back into the ring.
“The main reason I decided to stop fighting was because I felt burned out and had no motivation anymore. I felt that I had been using my body for a long time, so I wanted to take a break and do something else,” Panpayak told ONE.
A significant life change rekindled Panpayak’s passion to compete.
After having a child, the Thai athlete found more reason to step back between the ropes and be an inspiration for his daughter.
“I always followed ONE during the past two years. I admit that I missed fighting a bit, but I didn’t have any motivation to come back to fight – until I had a child,” the Thai star said.
“I wanted to come back to fight again because I wanted to show my child how good a fighter I am. If I didn’t have a child, I might never come back.”
While Panpayak would surely like to rejoin the chase for the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Title, he first wants to establish to everyone that he is still at the top of his game. That is why “The Angel Warrior” is focused on putting on a show in Bangkok in his return.
“My goal for this fight is to make an epic comeback by winning by knockout. I want to show my daughter and everyone that Panpayak is still a great fighter,” Panpayak remarked.
In his comeback bout, Panpayak is not taking anything for granted. He has been looking deeper into what skills Silviu brings to the table, and believes he can use his experience to take out the Romanian striker.
“Silviu’s fighting style is different from other foreign boxers who move in and out quickly. He almost stands still and trades one by one, like Thai fighters,” Panpayak commented.
“His strengths are his endurance and his all-around weapons, so I plan to use my superior experience to fight against him.”
The 28-year-old is prepared to come out aggressive at ONE Friday Fights 83.
“The Angel Warrior” is excited to give fans a memorable performance all the while delivering a message to the flyweight division that he is back with a vengeance.
“For this fight, I have worked hard on my punches. As for kicks, don’t worry, you guys will definitely see it in the ring. I will try to press forward as much as possible because I believe that many fans still think of me as a fighter who likes to back away,” Panapayak said.
“For this fight, I will show my fans that I am a new Panpayak who has changed his style to be more aggressive with no more retreating.”
ONE Friday Fights 83 airs live and free on ONE’s YouTube channel beginning at 8:30 a.m. ET/5:30 a.m. PT on Friday, October 18.