“The Angel Warrior” Panpayak Jitmuangnon picked up a bounce back win on Friday, May 22. The seven time Muay Thai World Champion outpointed Othman “The Ironside” Rhouni by split decision. The bantamweight kickboxing fight was the co-main event of ONE Friday Fights 155.
His left kick played the pivotal role throughout the contest. The Thai veteran improved his career record to 251-44. The result was the bounce back he needed after a tough loss.
How the fight unfolded
Panpayak pressed forward from the opening bell. His signature left kick disrupted the Moroccan’s unorthodox rhythm. Every time Rhouni stepped in, a left straight punch was waiting for his chin.
Rhouni did find some success with low kicks to keep the round competitive. But “The Angel Warrior” flew forward into enemy territory with more combinations.
The Moroccan came out more aggressively in round two. He took the fight to the Jitmuangnon Gym athlete with punches to the body. Panpayak stayed crafty, manoeuvring to the sides and blasting Rhouni with left kicks each time he advanced.
Rhouni made it more competitive in the third. He stepped in with knees to soften up Panpayak’s belly. The Thai stuck to his game plan. He ripped left kicks into Rhouni’s side and followed up with straight left punches to see out the round.
What the win means
Panpayak showed his experience remains a formidable weapon. He moved closer to a deeper ONE Championship run. The Thai veteran looks far from finished at the highest level.