“That’s what makes him special” - Jake Peacock dissects the qualities that make Tawanchai a generational talent
Emerging ONE Muay Thai fighter Jake Peacock of Canada is impressed with Thai superstar Tawanchai PK Saenchai and considers him a generational talent.
'The One,' who has a missing right forearm which did not fully grow while he was in the womb, spoke about the ONE featherweight Muay Thai world champion in an interview with Sportskeeda MMA, sharing some of the qualities that have made Tawanchai, 25, the superstar that he is.
31-year-old Peacock said:
"Yeah, it's his timing. That's what makes him special. And his IQ, knowing when to throw certain techniques and yeah, just the timing really. It's the key and backbone and it's just so good."
Tawanchai made his ONE debut in May 2021 and became featherweight world champion after his fifth match in the promotion in September 2022, defeating former champion Petchmorakot Petchyindee by decision.
He has since successfully defended his belt three times and is set to defend it next in January 2025 at ONE 170 in a title rematch with fellow Thai superstar and reigning interim featherweight kickboxing world champion Superbon.
Meanwhile, Jake Peacock is looking to establish his footing further in ONE after winning in his promotional debut back in April over Japanese Kohei Shinjo by decision.
Jake Peacock rallying behind Jacob Smith in rematch with Rodtang at ONE 169
Jake Peacock is also a fan of the game of British striker Jacob Smith, who he is rooting for in his title rematch with Thai superstar Rodtang Jitmuangnon next month in Thailand.
The Englishman will try to seize the ONE flyweight Muay Thai world title from "The Iron Man' at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug on Nov. 8 at Bangkok's Lumpinee Stadium. It is a rematch of their first encounter in May 2022 in a flyweight Muay Thai World Grand Prix quarterfinal match, which Rodtang dominated with a decision victory.
In an interview with Sportskeeda MMA, Peacock shared his thoughts on Rodtang-Smith II, including how the Bad Company affiliate has some things going for him come fight night and that he is rooting for him to do well.
Jake Peacock said:
"Oh man, I think Jacob is the go-getter. I think he's highly skilled. I like Jacob, I don't know him personally, I know him through some mutual friends and I have spoken to him a few times. Jacob is tough. Very, very tough, too. So I wish him all the best."
Rodtang-Jacob II is the co-headlining match at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug, which will be aired live and for free in U.S. primetime to North American fans with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription.