When it comes to electrifying fight performances, few can match the captivating style of Muay Thai fighter ‘Smokin’ Jo Nattawut
Renowned for his thrilling bouts and remarkable skill, Nattawut’s motivation stems from a deep passion for the sport and a desire to entertain his audience.
From a young age, Nattawut was drawn to the world of Muay Thai. Growing up in Thailand, where the sport is deeply ingrained in the culture, he was inspired by the skill and dedication of the fighters he watched.
This early exposure ignited a passion within him, driving him to pursue a career in the sport.
For Nattawut, the thrill of competition is a major motivator. He thrives in the ring, pushing himself to the limit to outmaneuver and outperform his opponents.
This drive to succeed pushes him to constantly improve his skills and techniques, ensuring that each fight is more exciting than the last.
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‘Smokin’ Jo Nattawut: In ONE Championship Muay Thai
Muay Thai is a sport known for its fierce competition and intense bouts, and one athlete who consistently delivers thrilling performances is ‘Smokin’ Jo Nattawut.1
As the third-ranked ONE featherweight Muay Thai contender, Nattawut has made it his mission to ensure that his fights are must-see events. At 34 years old, he brings relentless aggression to the ring, captivating fans worldwide.
In a recent interview with ONE Championship, Nattawut expressed his dedication to presenting Muay Thai in an exciting light. He feels a personal responsibility to showcase the sport’s dynamic nature and entertain the audience.
“Everyone who watches the striking fights in ONE loves it,” Nattawut shared. “When it’s my fight, everyone enjoys it and likes my style, so that’s going to help grow the sport a lot.”
Upcoming Challenge for ONE Championship Gold
Nattawut’s commitment to entertaining fans will be on full display in his next fight. He is set to challenge the reigning and undisputed ONE featherweight Muay Thai world champion, Tawanchai PK Saenchai. This highly anticipated bout will take place in the co-main event of ONE 167: Stamp vs. Zamboanga on Prime Video.
The event will be broadcast live from the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, offering fans an electrifying night of Muay Thai action. For viewers in the United States and Canada, the event can be watched live and free on Amazon Prime Video on Friday, June 7, during U.S. primetime.
For all the latest news and updates on ONE 167 and other MMA events, stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA. The platform will provide comprehensive coverage and insights as the event unfolds, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the action.
Jo Nattawut Envisions a Bright Future for Muay Thai: “We Can Reach the Highest Level”
Thai superstar ‘Smokin’ Jo Nattawut is an ardent believer in the potential of Muay Thai, envisioning a future where the sport surpasses even Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in global popularity.
In an interview with ONE Championship, Nattawut expressed his optimism about the future of Muay Thai.
He stated, “Thinking about Muay Thai, overall, in the next 10 years, it can be as big as [MMA] or even bigger because it’s so exciting and people love watching it. I think if ONE keeps going like this for the next five to ten years, we can reach the highest level.”
Muay Thai’s Unique Appeal
Muay Thai, often referred to as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” offers a distinct and exhilarating viewing experience.
The sport’s use of punches, kicks, elbows, and knees creates a dynamic and engaging combat style that captivates audiences worldwide. This unique appeal positions Muay Thai to potentially outshine other combat sports.
The Role of ONE Championship
ONE Championship has been pivotal in promoting Muay Thai on a global stage. By showcasing high-caliber fighters and organizing thrilling events, ONE Championship has introduced Muay Thai to a broader audience.
Nattawut’s comments highlight the importance of consistent support and promotion from major organizations to achieve mainstream success.
The Evolution of Muay Thai
Muay Thai has evolved significantly over the years, incorporating modern training techniques and expanding its reach beyond Thailand.
As more international fighters embrace Muay Thai, the sport continues to grow in diversity and talent, further enhancing its global appeal.
Comparisons to MMA
While MMA has achieved immense popularity over the past few decades, Muay Thai offers a different kind of excitement. The focus on stand-up striking and the cultural richness of Muay Thai add unique dimensions that can attract a wide audience.
Nattawut’s vision of Muay Thai reaching or surpassing MMA in popularity is not far-fetched, given the sport’s increasing recognition and fanbase.
The Next Decade for Muay Thai
Looking ahead, the next decade holds great promise for Muay Thai. With sustained efforts from fighters, promoters, and organizations like ONE Championship, Muay Thai can achieve new heights.
Nattawut’s optimism is a testament to the potential that lies within the sport.
‘Smokin’ Jo Nattawut’s belief in the future of Muay Thai reflects the sport’s growing momentum and global appeal.
As Muay Thai continues to evolve and gain popularity, it has the potential to reach the highest levels of recognition and success, possibly even surpassing MMA in the process. With the support of dedicated fighters and organizations, the future of Muay Thai looks incredibly promising.
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Jo Nattawut: Bio
Jo Nattawut, also known as Smokin’ Jo, is a name that resonates with Muay Thai enthusiasts around the world.2
Born as Nattawut Somkhun on October 7, 1989, in Thailand, he has carved out an illustrious career in the world of Muay Thai kickboxing.
With numerous titles and a prominent standing in the sport, Jo Nattawut’s journey is one of dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Early Life and Introduction to Muay Thai
Growing up in Thailand, the cradle of Muay Thai, Jo Nattawut was exposed to the sport from a young age. His initial foray into Muay Thai was driven by a combination of cultural immersion and personal passion.
Like many young Thai boys, he trained at local gyms, honing his skills and developing the foundational techniques that would later define his career.
Rise to Prominence
Nattawut’s talent and dedication quickly set him apart. He began competing in local competitions, steadily climbing the ranks.
His prowess in the ring did not go unnoticed, and soon he was fighting in bigger arenas and against tougher opponents.
His ability to adapt and improve with each bout made him a formidable opponent and a rising star in the Muay Thai community.
Jo Nattawut: Career
The Resilient Journey of a Muay Thai Champion
Jo Nattawut’s journey into the world of Muay Thai began serendipitously at the tender age of 10. His first encounter with the sport occurred when he saw his football coach hitting a heavy bag.3
Intrigued and eager to try, Jo asked to join in. This curiosity quickly turned into a passion as he began training Muay Thai after football practice. Remarkably, Jo took his first fight on just 12 hours’ notice at the same age.
To pursue his newfound passion more seriously, Jo joined a local Muay Thai camp near his house and trained diligently in his free time.
By the age of 18, Jo made a significant decision to move to Bangkok, the epicenter of Muay Thai, to train professionally.
However, after a year and a half with no significant success, he decided to take a break from the sport and relocated to Ko Pha-ngan island. There, he worked various jobs, including at a restaurant, hotel, and fitness gym during the day, while selling whiskey on the beach at night.
Despite the hiatus from professional fighting, Jo organized Muay Thai showcases for tourists and occasionally fought in these events to stay connected to the sport.
Move to the United States and Career Resurgence
- In early 2013, Jo made a life-changing move to the United States. Initially settling in Colorado, he discovered a new passion for snowboarding.
- Later that year, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where he began teaching kickboxing and Muay Thai classes. This move marked the beginning of his career resurgence.
- Jo’s competitive career in the U.S. took off when he joined Lion Fight, a prominent American Muay Thai organization based in Las Vegas. His debut fight at Lion Fight 17 was against Cosmo Alexandre, taken on just one week’s notice. Jo secured a victory by split decision, marking a promising start.
- His next fight at Lion Fight 19 against Sean Kearney, taken on 24 hours’ notice, also ended in a win by unanimous decision.
- At Lion Fight 22, Jo captured the Lion Fight Super Welterweight Championship by defeating Salah Khalifa.
- He defended this title successfully five times against notable opponents: Charlie Peters (Lion Fight 24), Cedric Manhoef (Lion Fight 28), Hasan Toy (Lion Fight 33), Kengsiam Nor Sripueng (Lion Fight 35), and Petchtanong Banchamek (Lion Fight 37).
- Additionally, he won the Lion Fight Middleweight Championship by defeating fellow Thai expatriate fighter Malaipet Sasiprapa at Lion Fight 32.
ONE Championship Debut and Success
Following his success in the U.S., Jo signed with ONE Championship, a premier Asian martial arts organization. He debuted on April 20, 2018, at ONE Championship: Heroes of Honor in Manila, facing legendary kickboxer Giorgio Petrosyan. Despite a valiant effort, Jo lost by unanimous decision.
Jo’s resilience shone through in his subsequent fights. He knocked out Yohann Drai in the first round at ONE Championship: Pursuit of Power on July 13, 2018, marking his first win in the organization.
He continued his winning streak by defeating George Mann of Scotland by unanimous decision at ONE Championship: Heart of the Lion in Singapore on November 9, 2018.
Returning to Thailand for the first time since his move to the U.S., Jo fought Samy Sana of France at ONE Championship: Clash of Legends in Bangkok on February 16, 2019, securing another win by unanimous decision.
2019 ONE Kickboxing Featherweight World Grand Prix
Jo Nattawut’s stellar performances earned him a spot in the ONE Super Series Kickboxing Featherweight World Grand Prix, a tournament featuring elite fighters like Yodsanklai Fairtex, Giorgio Petrosyan, and Dzhabar Askerov.
In the Quarter-Finals at ONE Championship: Enter the Dragon in Singapore, Jo faced Sasha Moisa, a Ukrainian fighter known for competing in Lethwei. Jo triumphed via TKO, knocking Moisa down three times in the third round and advancing to the Semi-Finals.
However, Jo’s Grand Prix journey faced a setback when he was knocked out in the first round by Giorgio Petrosyan at ONE Championship: Dreams of Gold in Bangkok, thus ending his run in the tournament.
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Training and Return to Competition
Despite the Grand Prix loss, Jo remained dedicated to his training and career. He currently trains at his own gym, United Training Center, located in Atlanta, Georgia.
After a brief hiatus, Jo returned to competition in the 2021 ONE Kickboxing Featherweight World Grand Prix. He was initially scheduled to fight Yurik Davtyan at ONE Championship: First Strike on October 15, 2021, but the fight was rescheduled for ONE Championship: NextGen II on November 12, 2021, where Jo won by knockout in the first round.
He was set to face Dovydas Rimkus at ONE: Only the Brave on January 28, 2022. However, after Grand Prix semifinalist Marat Grigorian tested positive for COVID-19, Jo was rebooked to fight Chingiz Allazov in the Grand Prix semifinals, where he lost by first-round knockout.
Recent Fights and Future Prospects
- In a return to Muay Thai rules, Jo faced Jamal Yusupov at ONE 159 on July 22, 2022, but lost by unanimous decision.
- On October 7, 2023, he replaced Superbon Singha Mawynn to fight Tawanchai P.K.Saenchai at ONE Fight Night 15, losing via unanimous decision.
- Jo was scheduled to face Niclas Larsen on December 9, 2023, at ONE Fight Night 17. However, Larsen withdrew due to injury and was replaced by newcomer Luke Lessei. Jo won the bout by unanimous decision.
- Looking ahead, Jo Nattawut is set for a high-stakes rematch against Tawanchai P.K.Saenchai for the ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Championship on June 6, 2024, at ONE 167.
- This match is highly anticipated and promises to be a defining moment in Jo’s illustrious career.
- Jo Nattawut’s journey from a young boy discovering Muay Thai to becoming a world-renowned fighter is a testament to his resilience, passion, and dedication.
- His career is a source of inspiration for many aspiring fighters around the globe.
Jo Nattawut: Achievements
Jo Nattawut’s career is decorated with significant titles and achievements. He is a 5-time Lion Fight super welterweight champion, showcasing his dominance in the division.
Additionally, he has secured the Lion Fight middleweight championship, further cementing his status as a versatile and highly skilled fighter.
Beyond these, he also held the prestigious WMC Super Lightweight championship, adding another feather to his cap.
Transition to ONE Championship
In pursuit of greater challenges and wider recognition, Jo Nattawut transitioned to ONE Championship, a premier martial arts organization that hosts elite fighters from around the globe. Competing in the ONE Super Series, Nattawut has continued to demonstrate his exceptional skills and determination.
His matches in ONE Championship have been marked by thrilling performances and have garnered him a significant fan following.
Current Standing and Rankings
As of December 20, 2023, Jo Nattawut is ranked #3 in the ONE Featherweight Muay Thai rankings. This ranking is a testament to his skill, perseverance, and consistent performance against some of the best fighters in the world.
Being among the top fighters in such a competitive division underscores his status as an elite Muay Thai kickboxer.
Fighting Style and Techniques
Jo Nattawut is renowned for his aggressive and dynamic fighting style. His nickname, “Smokin’ Jo,” reflects his relentless pressure and powerful strikes. He employs a blend of traditional Muay Thai techniques with a modern flair, making his fighting style both effective and entertaining.
His ability to deliver knockout blows, combined with his tactical acumen, makes him a formidable opponent in any bout.
Training Regimen and Philosophy
Behind Nattawut’s success is a rigorous training regimen and a strong philosophical approach to the sport. His training involves a combination of physical conditioning, technical drills, and sparring sessions.
Nattawut places significant emphasis on mental preparation, believing that a strong mindset is crucial for success in the ring. His dedication to training and his holistic approach to Muay Thai have been key factors in his sustained success.
Jo Nattawut’s impact on the sport of Muay Thai extends beyond his personal achievements. He serves as an inspiration to young fighters in Thailand and around the world.
His journey from a local gym in Thailand to the global stage of ONE Championship exemplifies the possibilities within the sport for those who are dedicated and passionate.
Nattawut’s success has helped elevate the profile of Muay Thai and has contributed to its growing popularity internationally.
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