In the bustling heart of Bangkok, Jaosuayai Mor Krungthepthonburi meticulously wraps his hands as he prepares for another grueling fight. For most people, fighting at the historic Lumpinee Stadium represents the pinnacle of Muay Thai achievement — a distant dream. For Jaosuayai, it’s simply become home, the latest chapter in a journey that began with a child’s bold request to become a Muay Thai fighter.
As he readies for his flyweight Muay Thai bout against Nakrob Fairtex at ONE Fight Night 32 on Saturday, June 7, at Bangkok’s revered Lumpinee Stadium, the significance isn’t lost on him. This is no ordinary contest — it’s the culmination of sixteen years of sacrifice, pain, and unwavering determination.
“Before, I only dreamed of having a chance to fight in ONE someday,” Jaosuayai said. “Now, not only did I get a fight in ONE Lumpinee, but I also got a contract. It’s something I’m incredibly happy about. I never thought I would reach this point. It feels worthwhile.”
The Third Child’s Different Path
Born into a typical working-class Thai family, Jaosuayai’s story begins with remarkable ordinariness.
“I have four siblings, and I’m the third child. My father works as a pile driver contractor, and my mother is a housewife,” he said, adding, “I’m the only one in my family who became a Muay Thai fighter.”
While his siblings pursued conventional paths, Jaosuayai’s childhood Sundays planted the seeds of his future.
“My inspiration for Muay Thai came from my dad. He loved watching it on TV every Sunday, a live broadcast on Channel 7. I would sit and watch the matches with him, and that’s how I gradually became interested.”
The cinematic spectacle of Tony Jaa’s action in “Ong Bak” further catalyzed his fascination, creating a blueprint for his aspirations.
“I really liked Tony Jaa’s action and wanted to be like him,” he admitted.
The 7-Year-Old Who Left Home
What makes Jaosuayai’s story particularly compelling is his extraordinary commitment at such a young age. At just 7, following exposure to Muay Thai at a university club, he made a decision that would change everything.
“I started Muay Thai when I was 7 years old. I asked Mr. Chet if I could train, and he allowed me to live at the gym, which is where I’ve been ever since,” he said. “Most of my life has been spent in the gym. I haven’t had much time at home.”
His first fight came shortly thereafter, ending in defeat.
“My first fight experience was scary because I didn’t expect it to hurt so much,” he recalled with disarming honesty. “I was very nervous and felt a lot of pressure before and after the fight. But once I was in there, I forgot my fear and just focused on the fight. And I actually enjoyed it.”
Paradoxically, it was this loss — coupled with the economic and social rewards — that cemented his commitment.
“The turning point that really got me hooked on Muay Thai was getting the money from that fight and having a great time with my friends,” he said. “That’s when I decided to focus on this path.”
The Dark Period: Bangkok’s Challenge
Like many provincial fighters who migrate to the capital, Jaosuayai faced his greatest challenge when transitioning to Bangkok’s competitive circuit.
“The hardest time in my career was probably when I moved to Bangkok and started fighting in standard rings. I struggled with losses, weight cutting, and exhaustion, which made me want to quit,” he revealed.
This crucible of adversity nearly extinguished his aspirations, but parental wisdom provided the perspective he needed.
“I got through that difficult time because of my family’s support. My dad told me I might have failed this time, but why not try again? I had to overcome this obstacle and just needed to be more determined,” he said.
These words sparked a methodical transformation in his approach.
“So, I went back to the drawing board, started to strategize and prepare myself before fights. I improved and eventually got through it,” he said.
The result was his proudest pre-ONE achievement:
“Outside of ONE, my proudest fight win was when I knocked out Dome Pranchai in a Channel 7 fight,” Jaosuayai remembered. “I was able to knock him out with a flying knee, and it earned me the Best Muay Thai Fighter award.”
Preparation For The Global Stage
As Jaosuayai prepares for Nakrob, his training regimen reflects the disciplined lifestyle he’s maintained for sixteen years.
“I wake up at 6 a.m., go for a run, and come back around 8 a.m. to train at the gym. I do punching bag work, hit pads, and spar. For my evening training, I go for a 3-kilometer run and do the same things I did in the morning.”
This preparation is overseen by an experienced team.
“Pol. Lt. Col. Surachet, the owner of the gym, will directly supervise my training. He’ll help me fix my weaknesses. There are also many trainers at the gym who will help me refine my skills. I also get advice from fellow ONE fighters like Rambolek and Aliff,” he said.
His tactical approach demonstrates analytical sophistication.
“In the fight against Nakrob, I need to increase my strength and footwork. Because he’s an aggressive fighter who moves forward, I have to use my footwork to evade his attacks and counter strongly,” Jaosuayai explained.
“Nakrob’s strength is his high stamina and good attacking ability, but his weakness is that he tends to come straight in, which is predictable, and he neglects his defense.
“My gameplan for this fight is to wait for him to come in and counter accurately, but I’m not afraid to trade with him. However, I won’t trade continuously. I’ll use a hit-and-away strategy.”
Beyond The Fight: A Legacy In Formation
Despite his current focus, Jaosuayai’s vision extends beyond immediate victory.
“My goal right now is just to do my best and keep winning so that one day I can hold a gold strap. In the future, I might open my own gym to pass on my techniques and knowledge to the next generation,” he said.
This long-term perspective is balanced with an appreciation for life’s pleasures.
“Balancing fighting and personal life isn’t a problem for me because, as I said, I live in the gym and spend almost all my time there. But after a fight, I reward myself by going on vacation to relax,” he said.
As he steps into the Circle against Nakrob Fairtex, Jaosuayai carries more than just personal ambition — he embodies the archetypal journey of countless Thai fighters who transformed childhood fascination into professional artistry. His parting message to fans reveals both humility and confidence.
“I want all the fans to cheer and support me,” he said. “I will try my best to perform well in this fight and entertain you all the way. Let’s have some fun together.”