Tag: Combat

The sport of strongman is still a young sport that’s not even 50 years old. Only a handful of strongman athletes are considered a legend, and all strongman fans acknowledge Zydrunas Savickas as a legend.

Name:	Zydrunas Savickas
Date of Birth:	July 15th, 1979
Place of Birth:	Biržai, Lithuanian SSR, Soviet Union
Nickname:	Big Z
Country:	Birzai, Lithuania
Height:	6 ft 3 in(191 cm)
Weight:	401 lbs(182 kg)
Career:	1998 to present
Championships:	4x World Strongman Champion, 8x Arnold Strongman Classic Champion, 2x IFSA World Strongman Champion

Here’s a breakdown of the strongman and powerlifting legend Zydrunas Savickas. Detailing his journey to becoming one of the most prolific strongman athletes ever.

Zydrunas Savickas’ Early Life

Zydrunas Savickas grew up in Birzai, Lithuania, and would get an interest in strongman early during his childhood. His first exposure to the sport of strongman was watching a televised Lithuanian strongman event when he was fourteen years old.

Savickas would initially try playing basketball since he was quite tall, standing at 6ft 3 in tall. But Zydrunas was also over three hundred pounds and incredibly strong.

His destiny would be to become a top competitor in strongman competitions.

Zydrunas Savickas’ Entry Into Powerlifting & Strongman 

Two years after seeing his first strongman event, Savickas would enter his first strongman competition at just sixteen years old. He would do well in his first competition and even beat some of Lithuania’s most seasoned strength athletes.

Once Savickas got a taster for strongman competitions, he was hooked on strength sports. This competition would lead Zydrunas Savickas to pick up powerlifting immediately after.

Savickas would break every Lithuanian powerlifting record in just his second powerlifting meet. Setting records in every lift that would stand for years.

Zydrunas Savickas’ Early Strongman Career

At just twenty-three years old, Savickas had already been a strength athlete for seven years. But the best Big Z still wouldn’t be seen for years to come.

After seven years, Zydrunas Savickas would finally reach his goal of winning Lithuania’s Strongest Man in 1998. This win automatically qualifies Savickas for his first World’s Strongest Man Competition.

The 1998 World’s Strongest Man competition was held in Morocco. Savickas would qualify but not rank in the top 10.

His most notable accomplishment in his first World’s Strongest Man was winning heat 5 of the anchor drag event.

In 2000, he would once again with Lithuania’s Strongest Man and qualify for the 2000 World’s Strongest Man held in South Africa.

Zydrunas Savickas’ First Major Injury

In 2001, Zydrunas sustained the first serious injury of his career. At a contest in the Faroe Islands, Savickas tore both patellar tendons in the Conan wheel row.

Many assumed that suffering such an injury meant the end of Savickas’ career. He would shock the strength sports world by returning just nine months after suffering the injury.

In his first event back, Big Z would win the Lithuania powerlifting championships again. Following this win up with another Lithuanian World’s Strongest Man win. 

This would be the begin the next chapter in the career of Zydrunis Savickas.

World’s Strongest Man 2002 

After fully recovering from his gruesome injuries, Savickas would finally get over the hump at the World’s Strongest Man. This would be the first year that Zydrunas Savickas would not only rank, but earn a medal.

At the 25th World’s Strongest Man event in Malaysia, Zavickas would earn a silver medal that year’s event. Notably placing first in the lorry pull and two second-place finishes in the car deadlift and tire/anchor flip and drag event.

World’s Strongest Man 2003 

In 2003, Zydrunas Savickas would return to the World’s Strongest Man event and accumulate a score of 46 in six events. Earning him another second-place finish at the biggest event within strength sports.

World’s Strongest Man 2004

Savickas would earn another silver medal at the 2004 World’s Strongest Man for the third straight year. This time, Savickas would be beaten by Ukrainian strongman Vasyl Virastyuk.

Many were beginning to believe that Big Z was a good strongman but would never be a champion.

The Prime of Zydrunas Savickas 

During the 2000s, Zydrunas Savickas would begin transforming from top strongman competitor to a world champion. Here are some of the highlights from the prime of his career.

6x Arnold Strongman Classic Champion 

While Zydrunas Savickas may have been coming up short in World’s Strongest Man, he made records at other strength competitions. Particularly at the Arnold Strongman Classic Championship.

In 2003, Savickas would win his first Arnold Strongman Classic Championship. He would follow this win up with five more straight wins at the event.

These six straight championship wins would make Zydrunas the most-winning athlete in the event’s history.

Strongman’s Champion League

From 2008 to 2015, Savickas competed at events by the Strongman’s Champion League. During this timeframe, Zydrunas Savickas would win 36 different events that were held all over the world.

Big Z’s First World’s Strongest Man Championship & Repeat

In 2009, Big Z would prove all of his doubters wrong that he couldn’t win the World’s Strongest Man Championship. He would break through his ceiling to become the World’s Strongest Man for the first time in his career.

Savickas would finally beat Mariusz Pudianowski to win the biggest event in strength sports.

Big Z would prove that his win in 2009 was no fluke. Returning to the championship event in 2010 and repeating as World’s Strongest Man champion. Beating American Brian Shaw by the slimmest of margins

Injury & Comeback 

Just when Big Z was hitting the prime of his career, he suffered another significant injury. Tearing his bicep and earning his fourth second-place finish at World’s Strongest Man.

Many would assume that this was the end of the legend’s career, but he proved them wrong again. Rehabbing and returning to competition in less than a year.

After the injury, Zydrunas Savickas would win two more World’s Strongest Man titles in 2012 and again in 2014. Also earning three more silver medals after the injury.

Zydrunas Savickas’ Training 

Zydrunas has had an extremely long career as a strong sport athlete. A lot of his longevity is connected with his discipline in training.

Early on in Savickas’ career, he was known for his explosivity in training. Big Z has become more methodical in the gym as he’s gotten older.

His training routine consists of two types of weight training mixed together. Savickas will lift like a bodybuilder, where he trains different muscle groups on specific days. Of course, using more weight than a traditional bodybuilder would keep up his strength.

Then the strongman-specific training that Zydrunas Savickas does depends on the upcoming competition. Months out of the competition, Savickas will practice the exercises that will be performed at the event.

He will keep his strength up before the event and hopefully enter the competition with little to no injuries.

World Records Held by Zydrunas Savickas 

In a career that spans over 25 years, Zydrunas Savickas has numerous records to his name. Here’s a list of all his world records and career highlights in various strongman lifts.

• Log lift for Max Weight – 228 kg (503 lb) (former world record, 2015 Arnold Classic Brazil Strongman Pro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
• Giant Barbell Squat for Reps – 329 kg (725 lb) × 15 single-ply suit w/ wraps (World record, 2014 World’s Strongest Man, Los Angeles, California)
• Ironmind S-Cubed Bar Deadlift at 1-inch deficit (with straps) – 442 kg (974 lb) (former World record, 2011 World’s Strongest Man, Wingate, North Carolina)
• Rogue Elephant Bar Deadlift (raw with straps) – 404 kg (891 lb) (2016 Arnold Strongman Classic, Columbus, Ohio)
• Apollon’s Axle Press for Max Weight – 215 kg (474 lb) (2010 Giants Live, Istanbul, Turkey)
• Apollon’s Axle Press for Reps – 166 kg (366 lb) × 8 clean and press each rep (World record, 2006 Arnold Strongman Classic, Columbus, Ohio)
• Apollon’s Axle Press for Reps – 208 kg (459 lb) × 2 clean and press each rep (World record, 2010 Arnold Strongman Classic, Columbus, Ohio)
• Giant Wooden Log Lift for Max Weight – 210 kg (460 lb) (World Record, 2010 World’s Strongest Man, Sun City, South Africa)
• Apollon’s Wheels Overhead for Reps – 155 kg (342 lb) × 8 reps
• Giant Barbell Deadlift for Reps – 320 kg (710 lb) × 10 (World record, 2006 IFSA World Championships, Reykjavík, Iceland)
• Medicine Ball Throw for Height – 22 kg (49 lb) for 17 ft (5.18 m) (World record, 2004 Arnold Strongman Classic, Columbus, Ohio)
• One Arm Weight Over Bar – 25.5 kg (56 lb) over 5.6 meters (18 ft 4 in) (2013 SCL Russia)
• Atlas Stones (140-180 kg set) – 25.65 seconds (World record, 2006 IFSA World Championships, Reykjavík, Iceland)
• Metal Block press – 150 kg (330 lb) (former World record, 2011 World’s Strongest Man, Wingate, North Carolina)
• Hummer Tire Deadlift for Max Weight – 524 kg (1,155 lb) (former World record 2014 Arnold Strongman Classic, Columbus, Ohio)
• Heavy Super Yoke 640 kg (1,410 lb) – for 4 meters in 3.87 seconds (World record, 2014 Arnold Strongman Classic, Columbus, Ohio)

The Legacy of Zydrunas Savickas

Zydrunas “Big Z” Savickas is one of the most renowned athletes in the history of strongmen. Winning 84 international strongman competitions and numerous championships. Zydrunas Savickas has earned his place as an all-time great in his four decades-long career. 

But even though Zydrunas has left a huge mark on strength sports, he is still adding to his legacy. At 47 years old, Big Z is still one of the sport’s top athletes and will look to continue winning championships.

World champion arm wrestler Levan Saginashvili is one of the most intimidating figures in the world of arm wrestling. Known as the Georgian Hulk, Saginashvili has been an absolute force in arm wrestling for the last decade.

• Name: Levan Saginashvili
• Nickname: Georgian Hulk
• Years Active: 2012 to Present
• Championships: 23 Championships

Here is a breakdown of the career of arm wrestling world champion Levan Saginashvili. Detailing how he got into arm wrestling, put on immense size, and became the sport’s top arm wrestler.

Levan Saginashvili’s Entry Into Arm Wrestling 

Levan Saginashvili grew up in the eastern European country of Georgia, known for producing some of the world’s best wrestlers and strength athletes.

Naturally, growing up in a country where arm wrestling is a popular sport, Saginashvili would gain interest. 

At the beginning of Levan’s arm wrestling career, he weighed in at only 178 lbs(80 kg). Over the next few years, Levan Saginashvili would begin weight training and working with arm wrestling coaches.

He would begin entering into local and regional tournaments in Georgia. Building up experience and making a name for himself in the sport.

Levan Saginashvili’s Career Highlights 

The Georgian Hulk has been the most dominant competitor in arm wrestling for the last decade. Here are some of the highlights from Saginashvili’s career.

Levan Saginashvili’s Rocky Start

Looking at Levan Saginashvili today, you would think he came into arm wrestling as a dominant force. That wouldn’t be the case as Saginashvili had a long journey to becoming the world’s best arm wrestler.

Before Levan was the Georgian Hulk, he was just a young Georgian man that was learning the sport. Levan was successful early on in lower-scale tournaments, but things would get harder as he got more experience.

One of his first tests was at the 2012 Georgian National Armwrestling Championship. Placing 2nd in both the left and right-handed divisions. 

He would work his way back up to the National tournament for the second time in 2013. Earning 2nd place medal in the right-handed division, but a more disappointing 3rd place in the left-handed division.

In the same year, Saginashvili would make his international debut. Competing in the World Armwrestling Championship in Poland.

His first world championship appearance would be a wake-up call for Levan Saginashvili. Placing 9th in right-hand and 4th place in the left-handed division.

These disappointing finishes would be the catalyst for Saginashvili to start becoming the Georgian Hulk.

Saginashvili Finds Success

2014 would be Levan’s breakthrough year in the sport of arm wrestling. On his third attempt, Saginashvili would win the Georgian National tournament in the superheavyweight division.

This was followed by his debut at Euro Arm 2014, which resulted in a 2nd place finish in the right-handed division.

But his next big tournament, the world championship in Lithuania, showed that Levan was one of the world’s best arm wrestlers. Sweeping both divisions and winning the first world titles of his career.

In 2015, Saginashvili would return to defend his title and repeat as the left-handed world champion. Then becoming a 3x world champion in the left-handed division in 2016.

Levan Becomes The Georgian Hulk

2017 is when Levan Saginashvili went from Levon, the Georgian arm wrestler, to the Georgian Hulk. Almost double the size he first became an arm wrestler.

After the 2017 Armwrestling World Championship, Levan won his fourth left-handed world title. He also placed fifth in the right-handed division but would make a declaration.

Saginashvili declared that he would never lose another super match in his career. The Georgian Hulk would keep his word for the next seven years. This period of time is considered one of the most dominant runs in the sport’s history.

The Georgian Hulk would not be pinned for seven years and shut out all of the world’s best arm wrestlers. Numerous world champions from Dmitry Tuban, Tim Bresnan, Vitaly Laletin, Kydyrgaly Ongarbaev, and Dave Chaffee.

In 2022, many saw Saginashvili make a statement that cemented him as the world’s best arm wrestler. Levan would sweep one of the legends of arm wrestling in Devon Larratt. Quickly beating the legend 6 matches to 0.

After the matches, Larratt would present Levgan Saginashvili with the right-hand legacy hammer trophy. A symbol that recognized the Georgian Hulk as the world’s best right-handed arm wrestler.

The Georgian Hulk’s Streak Is Broken

In the finals of King Of The Table 6, Levan would meet young Italian competitor Ermes Gasparini. The first four matches were vintage Levan, who went up 4-0.

But his gas tank began to start to dry up in the fifth match. Gasparini would fend off a 5th straight pin and begin countering the Georgian Hulk.

Leading to Levan committing a pad foul along with going under the table. Saginashivili would commit a second straight pad foul in the restart as Gasparini nearly beat him.

An exhausted Levan would bow out of the last two matches. Snapping his unpinned streak at 7 years but winning another major arm wrestling title.

Levan Saginashvili’s Training

Seeing as Levan’s nickname is the Georgian Hulk, it’s obvious that he has an insane training regiment. Gaining his power from lifting incredibly heavy weights.

From the video of his training above, you can see that Levan possesses superhuman strength. The strength that has helped him become an arm wrestling champion numerous times.

Levan Saginashvili’s Style 

It should come as no surprise to anyone what Levan Saginashvili’s style is just by looking at him. He is one of the strongest arm wrestlers in the world and uses brute force to dominate his opponents.

When opponents lock up with him, they aren’t locking up with a normal person. His grip and forearm strength are insane, and once the ref says go, he just bulls them over. Almost nobody has been able to stop Levan for the last seven years.

Levan Saginashvili Becomes a Star

Levan’s stardom has surpassed just the sport of arm wrestling. Saginashvili has now made the jump to Hollywood and is now co-starring in movies.

His first appearance in a film was the 2021 movie The Lady of Heaven. Playing the role of Talha, The Room in the movie.

In his second film role, Saginashvili starred alongside Chris Hemsworth in the hit action film Extraction 2—the biggest role of his young acting career so far, where he had a fight scene with Hemsworth.

Levan Saginashvili’s Drug Use 

In the sport of arm wrestling, it is no secret that many of the sport’s top athletes take steroids. Levan has been rather open about his use of performance-enhancing drugs.

On Levan’s Youtube channel, he posted a video with a guest called the biological hacker Giorgi Kikonishvili. During the video, Saginashvili discussed using SARMS, selective androgen receptor modulators.

After this video, critics like Derek from More Plates More Dates did a breakdown of this interview. Derek believed that Levan wasn’t being truthful in his drug use.

His evidence was in his physic from when he started in arm wrestling until now—going from 176 lbs to almost 400 lbs of weight to become the Georgian Hulk as we know him today.

Levan Saginashvili’s Injury 

In June of 2023, Levan Saginashvili announced on his Youtube channel that he was dealing with an injury. The injury was to a tendon in his wrist that is responsible for flexion.

Surgery is not required, but Saginashvili is out of training for the next 6 to 8 weeks. He will undergo rehab and then slowly get back into training.

What’s Next For Levan Saginashvili?

After his recovery, we can expect Levan Saginashvili to continue dominating the world of arm wrestling. Also, more than likely starring in more action movies in the coming years. Saginashvili is now a full-fledged star, and we’ll be seeing more of him in the future.

Saenchai is a Muay Thai icon and one of the greatest Thai boxers ever.  A legend that has been at the top of Muay Thai for the last 30 years. 

• Name: Supachai “Saenchai” Saepong
• Gym: Yokkao
• Record(s): Kickboxing 327-49-2/Boxing 5-0
• Years Active: 1994 to Present
• Championships: 21 Combined World Championships

Here’s a quick rundown of an ageless Muay Thai icon, Saenchai. Detailing the highlights of his career and his most famous fights.

Saenchai’s Entry Into Muay Thai

Suphachai “Saenchai” Saepong grew up in the Thai province of Maha Sarakham. His first introduction to Muay Thai was when he was eight years old.

Saepong saw his older brother’s friend fight and win money. This would lead to his start in Muay Thai at the famous Jocky Gym.

Just a week after training, Suphachai would win his debut. Winning a decision and earning 30 Baht, which equals $1.

For the next six years, Saepong would fight around his province and gain experience.

Early Career At Lumpinee Stadium

When Saenchai was fourteen, Jocky transferred him to the Kamsing Gym in Bangkok—owned by Muay Thai legend Somluck Kamsing, who paid 300,000 Baht or around $3k for Saeprong’s contract.

Training at Kamsing Gym is where he would be given the ring name that Suphachai would become known by: Saenchai Sor. Kamsing.

He would level up and debut at Lumpinee Stadium at the age of fourteen. Winning his debut by decision.

Saenchai would go 4-3 in his next seven fights and lose a decision in his first Lumpinee title at 112 lbs. His next three bouts would be a series of matches with Ekachai Chaibadan, beginning a long rivalry between the two fighters.

During the rest of the 1990s, Saenchai would have numerous big matches. Winning both the 115 and 118 lbs Lumpinee Stadium Championships.

Fighting Career During The 2000s

Throughout the 2000s, Saenchai would fight in every major Muay Thai promotion numerous times. Fighting in all of the big stadiums from Rajadamnern, Omnoi, and of course Lumpinee Stadium.

After a decade of fighting in Thailand, Saenchai would win the 130 lbs Lumpinee Stadium before making his international debut. Knocking out Dutch fighter Joad Erraji in his home country of the Netherlands.

He would stay busy throughout the decade, winning and losing the 130 and 135 lb Lumpinee Stadium titles. Also, traveling to fight foreign fighters everywhere from England to Japan.

Short Boxing Career

From 2002 to 2004, Saenchai transitioned to professional boxing. Making his boxing debut on May 18th, 2002, with a decision win over Teofilo Tunacao.

In his second pro fight, he would win the vacant PABA interim Featherweight title with another decision win. He would win three more fights through 2004 before returning to Muay Thai full-time.

The Falling Out With Khamsing

During the late 2000s, a highly publicized falling out between Saenchai and Khamsing started in 2006. The gym owner disproved of Suphachai fighting in Japan a third time and wanted to book him in another fight.

Saenchai would ignore Khamsing and travel to fight in Japan with another fight team. This would lead to a separation, where Khamsing received 300,000 from Kingstar Gym as a transfer fee. For the next five years, Saenchai would train primarily at Kingstar Gym.

Saenchai Joins Yokkao

In 2011, Saenchai signed an exclusive deal to train at Yokkao Gym. Yokkao founder and owner Phillip Villa made him the premiere sponsored fighter on the Yokkao Fight Team.

This deal with Yokkao would make the Thai boxing champion one of the faces of Muay Thai. Allowing him to not only fight around the world but also put on seminars and training sessions. His first appearance was fighting at a Yokkao Extreme 2012 in front of 12,000 in Milan, Italy. 

Throughout the next 12 years, Saenchai has continued being the face of Yokkao and fighting at their events. Even winning the YOKKAO Diamond Welterweight Championship in 2020.

Retirement

In 2014, Saenchai retired from serious Muay Thai competition in Thailand. Choosing to only fight in showcase events around the world.

This move would lengthen the Muay Thai champion’s career and improve his financial situation. For the last decade, Saepong has been one of the highest-paid kickboxers in the world.

Saenchai’s Time With Thai Fight 

One of the most notable parts of Sanechai’s career was his time fighting for the promotion of Thai Fight. Since making his Thai Fight debut in 2014, Saenchai has never lost a match in the promotion. Making him the most successful fight in Thai Fight history.

His resume in Thai Fight includes the following:

• 2016 THAI FIGHT Kard Chuek 70 kg King’s Cup Champion
• 2017 THAI FIGHT 67 kg King’s Cup Champion
• 2018 THAI FIGHT 67 kg King’s Cup Champion
• 2019 THAI FIGHT 70 kg King’s Cup Champion
• 2022 THAI FIGHT 70 kg King’s Cup Champion
• Most Championships: 5
• Most Wins: 51
• Undefeated

Saenchai: The Most Active Thai Boxer 

Since 2010, Saenchai has been one of the most active fighters in the world. Suphachai has fought in 88 matches in 15 countries in the last thirteen years. Not to mention, the exhibition matches that he’s taken part in.

The Ageless

In 2014 when Saenchai retired from Muay Thai, the legend has not lost a match in almost a decade. Going an incredible 70-0 since exclusively fighting in showcases and Thai Fight.

When Suphachai initially retired at 34, he was seen to be well past the age where Thai boxers traditionally retire. At 42, Saenchai is still fighting and shows no signs of slowing down.

Since entering his 40s, he has fought 13 times and is scheduled for more matches in the future.

Saenchai To BKFC?

It was announced this year that Saenchai signed with bare-knuckle boing promotion BKFC. He was scheduled to fight fellow legend Buakaw Pramuk in a bare-knuckle Muay Thai bout.

This match was set to take place in March 2023, but BKFC ran into legal trouble. There was a dispute over BKFC’s use of the term Muay Thai in Thailand on a bare-knuckle boxing show. The event has not been rescheduled.

Saenchai’s Style

Suphachai Saenchai is a Muay Thai master but not your typical Thai boxer. He has perfect technique but has sort of an unorthodox approach that has been one of the keys to his success.

Saepong is known for his lethal precision, impressive footwork, and his high-level combos. Saenchai prefers to use precision striking over power striking, as in Thai boxing is the norm.

When the fight starts, Suphachai will begin reading his opponent and then begin setting up his unorthodox combos. Choosing to dissect his opponents before taking them out with one of his patented strikes.

Some of the trademark techniques of Saenchai include:

• Flying Scissor Head Kick
• Jumping Switching Front Kick
• Turn & Pivot To Left Head Kick
• Question Mark Kick
• Cartwheel Kick
• Cross To Back Knee
• Hand Trap To Cross
• Push Off To Headkick
• Back Kick To Cross
• Fake Front Knee Shuffle To Back Kick
• Roundhouse Catch To Footsweep
• Double Unders To Takedown
• Push & Pull Sweep
• Fake Back Kick To Back Push Kick(and vice-versa)
• Lean Back Headkick Defense To Counter

When you watch Saenchai fight, you’ll likely see him use nearly infinite setups with one or all of these techniques, making him one of the hardest opponents to prepare for.

Saenchai’s Legendary Training

After decades of fighting, people want to know Saenchai’s secret for staying on top of the sport. The secret to Supchai’s success is his immense dedication. 

Thai boxing is this man’s life; he is always in the gym, perfecting his technique and learning new techniques.

He spends several hours a day training doing rounds upon rounds of bag work, pad work, light sparring, and technical drilling. 

This dedication to training has made Saenchai a force to deal with in the ring. Being a master technician with a seemingly endless gas tank

The Teacher

Saenchai is one of the greatest fighters of all time, but his best work may be as a teacher. Since joining together with Yokkao and becoming their spokesman, Saepong became one of Muay Thai’s biggest ambassadors.

He has become one of the most sought-after teachers in kickboxing. Every year, Saenchai does several seminars and workshops that thousands of kickboxing practitioners participate in.

Whenever Saenchai isn’t training, he is teaching. Showing that he is a real student of his martial art.

Legacy

Saenchai Saepong is one of the most prolific fighters in the history of Muay Thai—a career spanning over 40 years with numerous championships that shows no sign of stopping.

But Saepong’s greatest contribution to Muay Thai is his work as an ambassador of the sport. He is one of the faces of Thai boxing that helped spread the martial art through his work teaching Muay Thai. This work makes Saenchai a true icon in Muay Thai.

When you think about the greatest Thai boxers of all, one name is always on the list. Buakaw Banchamek. 

• Name: Buakaw Banchamek
• Gym: Por. Pramuk Gym(1997-2012), Banchamek Gym(2012 to Present)
• Years Active: 1997 to Present Day
• Championships: 20+ World Championships 

This is the story of one of the biggest legends in the history of Muay Thai in Buakaw Banchamek. Detailing Buakaw’s legendary 35-year fighting career and how he stays among the sport’s best fighters.

Buakaw’s Entry Into Muay Thai

Buakaw Banchamek was born Sombat Banchamek. He grew up in the province of Surin, located in northeastern Thailand.

At the age of eight, Sombat was exposed to Muay Thai and began his training. His fighting career would begin soon after Banchamek had started his training.

Throughout the next 7 years, he would fight throughout northeastern Thailand and the province of Surin. Gaining experience in numerous undocumented fights and making money for his family.

Early Muay Thai Career

At the age of 15, Sombat moved to the city of Chachoengsao in central Thailand. Joining the legendary Por. Pramuk Gym.

As a part of a big gym with connections, Damtamin Kiat-anan, as he was initially called, would get big opportunities. 

Beginning the start of his pro career fighting in Bangkok in Omnoi and Lumpinee Stadium. Collecting numerous belts and fighting in the nation’s biggest tournaments.

This included winning the Toyota Marathon 140 lbs tournament in 2002. Buakaw’s impressive performances began to earn him international recognition.

K-1 Career 

After seven years of winning numerous belts in Bangkok, Buakaw would get his first big international opportunity. He would earn a spot in the 2004 K-1 World Max Tournament.

His debut would be successful as he beat three opponents in one night to win the title. This included beating John Wayne Parr and Takayuki Kohiruimaki in the finals.

In the 2005 tournament, Banchameet would earn runner-up before winning again in 2006. Establishing himself as one of the most decorated champions in the sport.

He would have numerous big fights on the promotion for the next eight years. Including participating in every L-1 Max Tournament during that time.

Thai Fight 

In 2011, Buakaw signed a big contract to fight for the fight promotion Thai fight. He would fight 11 times for the promotion over the next two years.

Buakaw’s first year with Thai was successful as he won the promotion’s 70 kg tournament. This title win would follow, with Banchamek defending his title in 2012. Going a perfect 11-0 in Thai Fight.

Leaving Por. Pramut Gym

In 2012, news broke of friction between Buakaw and his longtime gym in Por. Pramut Gym. It was first apparent when Banchamek was absent from training for two months.

He apologized to the public on a Thai talk show and cited problems with Por Pramut Gym’s management. Claiming that problems with management had been ongoing since 2009, including abuse and unprofessional behavior.

This would lead the Thai boxing champion to open his own gym in 2012 called Banchamek Gym. A world-class facility where Buakaw has made his home base for the last eleven years.

Buakaw’s Career During The 2010s & Retirement 

After setting up in his home gym, Buakaw would venture out on his own. Fighting in various promotions around the world from 2012 to 2019.

Everywhere from returning for his last run in K-1, fighting in Thailand again, and also bouts in China. At his last K-1 appearance, Banchameet would earn his second runner-up award in the Max tournament.

Then from 2017 to 2019, Buakaw would fight in Kunlan and various supershows around Thailand. After this run, he would go on a three-year hiatus from competing, where many thought the legend was retired.

Buakaw’s Comeback 

Buakaw would end his three-year hiatus in 2022 by making his return at World Fight Tournament in Cambodia. Defeating Dmitry Varats by unanimous decision.

He would also participate in various exhibition matches that were held at Rajadamnern Stadium. His real match would be against Japanese kickboxing veteran Yoshiro Sato.

A match that was scheduled to happen in 2008 in the K-1 tournament but never happened. When they finally met, Buakaw would win with a first-round KO.

His last kickboxing match took place on May 6, 2023 on the Rizin 42 card in Tokyo, Japan. Fighting to a draw against Japanese fighter Rukiya Anpo.

Putting his current record at 240 wins/24 losses/14 draws.

Buakaw Enters Bare Knuckle Boxing 

If making a comeback into Muay Thai and kickboxing wasn’t enough, he would also transition to another sport. Signing a contract to fight with the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship.

At 40 years old, Banchamek would make his BKFC debut on the BKFC: Thailand 3 event as the headliner. Defeating Erkan Varol by first-round knockout.

In 2023, it was announced that Buakaw would face Muay Thai legend Saenchai in a bare-knuckle Muay Thai match. But it was postponed due to legal issues over the use of the word Muay Thai in the event name.

Buakaw’s Titles Won

In a career that spans over 30 years, Buakaw has won numerous titles in kickboxing and Muay Thai. Here’s a current count of the world titles that Banchameet has won.

K-1 Kickboxing

• 2004 K-1 Max World Champion
• 2006 K-1 Max World Champion

Omnoi Stadium

• 2001 Omnoi Stadium Featherweight Champion
• 2002 Omnoi Stadium Lightweight Champion

Professional Boxing Association of Thailand

• 2001 Thailand (PAT) Featherweight Champion

Toyota Cup

• 2002 Toyota Cup Marathon 140 lb Champion

World Muay Thai Council

• 2006-2007 WMC Muay Thai Super Welterweight World Champion
• 2009 WMC/MAD Muay Thai Super Welterweight World Champion
• 2011 WMC Muaythai Junior Middleweight World Champion
• 2014-2015 WMC Muay Thai Junior Middleweight World Champion

WBC Muay Thai

• 2014 WBC Muay Thai Diamond World Champion

Thai Fight

• 2011 70 kg Tournament Champion
• 2012 70 kg Tournament Champion

S-1 Muay Thai

• 2005 S-1 Super Welterweight World Champion

Muay Thai Association

• 2005 MTA Champion

Kunlun Fight

• 2016 Kunlun Fight Muay Thai Middleweight World Champion

Phoenix Fighting  Championship

• 2016 PFC  Junior Middleweight Champion

King of Martial Arts

• 2003 KOMA GP Lightweight Champion

Shoot Boxing

• 2010 Shoot Boxing S-Cup World Champion

Buakaw’s Style of Muay Thai 

If you were to assemble the proto-typical Muay Thai fighter, that would be Buakaw. Banchamet is the living embodiment of Muay Thai.

He’s a well-rounded fighter that’s an expert in every facet of the sport—possessing KO power in both his hands and feet and sharp defense.

Being sharp in every aspect of the sport made Buakaw one of the toughest in the sport to face. In nearly 280 fights, Banchameet has only been defeated 24 times.

Buakaw’s Legendary Training Routines 

Buakaw is one of the most prolific fighters in the history of Muay Thai. After 30+ years in the sport, he continues to stay one of the best Thai boxers in the world.

The secret to Buakaw’s longevity is his legendary training routines. Banchameet’s discipline in his training is the secret to his ability to continue fighting into his 40s.

He is one of the most conditioned fighters on the planet. Putting himself through grueling workouts literally every day. Spending hours doing bag work, pad work, and especially strength and conditioning.

Buakaw’s discipline to keep training and learning is the key to his success and longevity. This dedication is why many review him as a legend in the sport.

The Legacy of Buakaw

Buakaw Banchameet is one of the greatest fighters in Muay Thai history and a legend of the sport. For over thirty years and into his forties, Banchameet continues to beat the world’s best and shows no sign of stopping.

He is already a legend and is remarkably still adding to his impeccable fighting career.

Dave Leduc is known by many as the king of Lethwei: the Canadian martial artist who became a Lethwei champion and the face of this growing combat sport.

Here’s the story of the king of Lethwei, Dave Leduc. Detailing Leduc’s incredible journey to becoming a world-famous Lethwei champion.

Dave Leduc’s Entry Into Martial Arts

Dave Leduc’s entry into martial arts is a bit of a story. It all started with a falling out with his father when he was seventeen.

The war of words between Dave and his father got so bad that his parents asked for him to move out. At seventeen and on the streets of Quebec, Leduc would direct his anger into learning martial arts.

Dave enrolled at Kung Fu Patenaude in the small city of Gatineau in 2009. He would begin learning Sanda from the school’s owner, Sifu Patrick Marcel.

As Dave began learning the art of Sanda, he would also gain an interest in No-Gi grappling. He would begin competing in No-Gi tournaments around the province and even help organize events.

Dave Leduc’s Introduction To Lethwei 

While training in Sanda, an instructor showed Leduc old footage of Burmese Bare-knuckle. He was in awe of the old footage and wanted to compete in this style of fighting.

Unfortunately for Dave, Lethwei and Muay Thai are not legal in Quebec, so he would have to make a plan. He attempted to get a visa to Myanmar but discovered it was extremely difficult to enter the country.

Dave Leduc’s Time In Muay Thai 

Since Leduc could not travel to Myanmar, he would instead travel to Thailand with some friends. A Thai visa is rather easy to get, so Leduc could stay in the country for 30 days.

While partying in Thailand, he would take a Muay Thai fight with no experience in Muay Thai. Remarkably, Leduc would win his Muay Thai debut and have a realization.

He could train in Thailand, fight, and use it as a possible springboard to get into Lethwei. Leduc had friends that trained at Tiger Muay Thai and were able to secure a tryout for the kickboxing team.

After passing the tryout, Leduc would earn a scholarship to stay in the country and train at Tiger Muay Thai. Dave would be on the team training alongside UFC vets Alex Volanovski, Dan Hooker, and Peter Yan. 

Leduc began competing in Thai boxing every month and knocked out his opponents. Unfortunately, Dave was finishing opponents in the first round, which made him unpopular with promoters, because spectators weren’t able to gamble.

These promoters would begin holding Leduc back, which would hurt him financially as a foreigner in Thailand.

Muay Thai Prison Fights

Leduc found his way onto the controversial prison fights show in Thailand. Muay Thai events that were put on by the Thai Department of Corrections. 

In these events, convicted criminals, who were Thai boxers, get to fight free opponents. If the prisoners win, they are able to reduce their sentences or even go free.

Dave volunteered as one of the free opponents against the prisoners at the last ever event in 2014. The matches were held at a maximum security prison outside of Bangkok.

Leduc would fight former Lupini Stadium fighter Thahan Chor, imprisoned for drug trafficking.

Dave Leduc’s Entry Into Lethwei

After using all of the money in Thailand, Dave was forced to go back to Canada. He would begin saving money again to make another trip to Thailand.

While in Canada, Leduc would contact a Muay Thai promoter to set up fights for him. This promoter told him that he had begun setting up Lethwei bouts.

Leduc realized this was his chance at his dream, and he jumped at the opportunity. 

Dave Leduc’s Lethwei Debut

Dave’s first Lethwei bout was a match with a staggering experience difference. He would fight the world champion Too Too, who was 36-0.

The promoter actually lied to the Myanmar organizer and said Leduc had 40 Muay Thai fights. Not the 10 professional Muay Thai bouts that he really had.

Leduc was met by tens of thousands of Burmese spectators throwing garbage at him. Of course, because he was the foreigner fighting the nation here.

But Leduc had looked up Lethwei fighters’ gestures before a fight. He began making a gesture where he would throw elbows into his cupped hand. The crowd would change emotions and begin respecting him.

Dave knew that he was sent in to lose this match, but he would stun the crowd with a magnificent performance. Drawing with Too Too and winning the hearts of the Myanmar people.

Dave Leduc Fights For The Openweight Title

Due to his impressive performance against Too Too, Leduc would earn another title shot. Competing for the open weight title against champion Tun Tun Min.

The two would fight in another sold-out crowd at the Thein Pyu Stadium. Both fighters would have a back-and-forth battle that would end in another draw.

Tun Tun would offer an immediate rematch to Leduc that took place later in 2016. Leduc would get the better of Tun Tun and hurt him in the third round. 

Forcing him to retire and giving the win to Leduc. The crowd roared in approval as Dave was awarded the golden belt.

Dave Leduc Becomes A Superstar

After becoming the World Openweight Lethwei Champion, Dave Leduc would become a superstar in Myanmar. He received a lot of fame and recognition from his adoring fans.

The head of Myanmar even paid for his wedding, which was aired live on public tv and watched by millions. Dave Leduc had become the King of Lethwei.

Leduc Becomes The King Of Lethwei

Over the next few years, Leduc would take on all comers. Defending his championship for the next three years against all comers.

Fighting all of the best Lethwei fighters in the world from Myanmar to Tokyo. One of the most anticipated matches was against Cyrus Washington, who had fought in Lethwei before Leduc. Leduc would beat Washington in two different bouts.

Probably the most globally viewed Lethwei match in Leduc’s career was against UFC vet Seth Baczynski. This would be Seth’s entry into Lethwei, and the King of Lethwei gave him a punishing lesson. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGgwDstFlzE&t=3s

Dave Leduc’s Entry Into MMA

Before Leduc could get into Lethwei, he would take MMA bouts while in Canada. 2013 he was a 3-0 amateur before his first trip to Thailand. This includes a win over a protege of GSP.

In 2014, he would take pro-MMA fights for money to return to Thailand but had not been training in grappling. Leduc had also not cut weight before, which took a toll on his body.

He would lose his pro debut to future UFC fighter Jonathan Meunier. Also, his second pro-MMA fight to future ONE title contender Koyomi Matsushima.

Dave Leduc’s Goes On JRE 

Where many became aware of the Lethwei champion from his appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast. He would appear on episode #81 of the JRE MMA show.

Telling his story on Rogan’s podcast would elevate Leduc’s popularity to new heights. His fights after the appearance were among the most viewed Lethwei events to date.

Dave would also reach a deal with BJJ Fanatics affiliate Dynamic Striking to produce instructional videos on Lethwei. His first video that’s available on the website is the Foundations of Lethwei.

Dave Leduc’s Lethwei Training

David has a unique way of training for a Burmese Bare-Knuckle boxing match. He has innovated his own training style to practice his specific techniques.

Specifically how to practice headbutts on the bag and mitts. Leduc has had to teach all of his pad holders how to hold pads for headbutts.

This innovation has helped many foreign beginner Lethwei fighters to learn how to throw Lethwei techniques at full speed.

Dave Leduc’s Hand Conditioning

A fighter’s hands must be conditioned since a Lethwei match is performed with bare knuckles. Dave goes through a hard hand conditioning routine to strengthen every part of his hand.

What Dave does is numerous sets of three types of pushups. 

1. Fingertip Pushups
2. Knuckle Pushups
3. Wrist Pushups

Leduc will also do his bad and pad work bare-handed in order to further condition his hands for fights.

What’s Next For Dave Leduc?

Without Dave Leduc, many of us would have known that the sport of Lethwei existed. Leduc is deservedly the face of the sport due to his work sharing Lethwei with the world. We eagerly await his return to the ring to defend his title as the World Lethwei Champion.

You can follow Leduc’s journey on his Youtube channel Leduc Lethwei.