Buakaw Banchamek Returns to Japan for K-1 World MAX Grand Prix
Kickboxing Icon Buakaw Banchamek Returns to Japan for K-1 World MAX Grand Prix
Two decades after clinching his first K-1 World MAX title, the legendary Buakaw Banchamek is set to make a triumphant return to Japan, vying to reclaim his throne at the upcoming K-1 World MAX Grand Prix on July 7. The two-time champion has been announced as the final entrant for this year’s prestigious tournament, which will take place at the Yoyogi 2nd Gymnasium in Tokyo.
Buakaw’s path to glory will not be an easy one, as he’s been pitted against tournament favorite and reigning K-1 champion Ouyang Feng. The crafty Chinese fighter, ranked 9th in the Beyond Kickboxing Rankings, boasts an impressive 38-3 record and is considered one of the top Lightweight prospects in the sport.
“After Ouyang’s dominant performance in the opening round against Pascal Schrott, the remaining six participants – Darryl Verdonk, Viktor Akimov, Kacper Muszyński, Zhora Akopyan, Romano Bakboord, and Dengue Silva – opted to avoid facing him in the quarterfinals, leaving him as the tournament’s wild card.”
At 42 years old, Buakaw may not be in his prime, but the Thai icon has remained active in recent years, recording quality wins, including a knockout victory over heavy-hitter Minoru Kimura at RIZIN Landmark 9.
For Ouyang, securing a win over a legend like Buakaw could propel him into the mainstream, while the iconic Thai fighter sees this as a chance to add another major title to his already impressive resume.
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