‘Smokin’ Jo Nattawut says a fighter is not defined by his world titles: “That's not everything”
'Smokin' Jo Nattawut isn't overly concerned with world titles.
Though hoisting 26 pounds of ONE Championship gold over his head isn't a top priority, Nattawut will have the opportunity to do so when he heads to Impact Arena in Bangkok for a clash with the reigning and defending ONE featherweight Muay Thai titleholder, Tawanchai.
The bout will come eight months after their first meeting — a kickboxing clash at ONE Fight Night 15. On that night, Tawanchai emerged victorious via unanimous decision. However, Nattawut's impressive performance on short notice was enough to earn him a rematch with the Thai's world title on the line.
Speaking with the promotion days ahead from fight night, Jo Nattawut suggested that having fun and enjoying himself is more important than the accolades a win will come with.
"This is personal, too. You know, it's me. I don't really get excited about things that much. I do like it when you get a title and stuff. It's nice, but, to me, that's not everything. I don't like to expect too much. I like to enjoy my time. As long as I'm happy and having fun then I'll do it."
Tawanchai looks to keep his unbeaten streak alive against a very dangerous Jo Nattawut
Sitting as the No. 3 ranked Muay Thai fighter in the featherweight division, Jo Nattawut has looked nothing short of impressive against the likes of George Mann, Samy Sana, and Luke Lessei. However, he has never faced a challenge like Tawanchai in the art of eight limbs.
Going into his third ONE world title defense, Tawanchai is riding a seven-fight win streak which dates back to a January 2022 victory over Saemapetch Fairtex at ONE: Heavy Hitters. Less than a year later, he delivered a title-winning performance against Petchmorakot Petchyindee at ONE 161.
Adding victories over Jamal Yusupov and kickboxing icon Superbon, Tawanchai will look to add another noteworthy name to his hit list on martial arts' biggest global stage.
ONE Championship fans in the United States and Canada can watch ONE 167 live and for free via Amazon Prime Video in U.S. primetime on Friday, June 7.