Tawanchai explains decision to vacate ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Title

Tawanchai PK Saenchai officially vacated his ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Title on Tuesday, July 21. The move clears the path for Nico Carrillo to be elevated from interim titleholder to undisputed champion of the division.

The 27-year-old has been sidelined since December 2025 following surgery for an injury suffered against Liu Mengyang, and the decision carried genuine weight for a fighter of his stature.

“Throughout my reign as champion, I felt so happy and honored to defend my belt in front of fans all over the world. Every athlete dreams of holding onto their title for as long as possible, and I’m no exception,” he said.

“But after taking time to reflect, especially regarding my injury, I am officially announcing that I am vacating my World Championship Title today. I want to give the interim champion and the top-ranked contenders the chance to chase their dreams.”

Tawanchai insists the decision was entirely his own

Tawanchai PK Saenchai made clear nobody pressured him into this call. Having spent years understanding what a title shot means to fighters chasing gold, he arrived at the decision entirely on his own terms.

He has largely stayed out of the spotlight since suffering the injury, letting his recovery play out away from constant public scrutiny. When he does return, Muay Thai will remain his clear priority, though he has not closed the door on his two-sport ambitions.

“I thought this through carefully and realized this is the right path so the organization can keep moving forward. I want to see other fighters get their shot, and I want the fans to stay happy watching the new generation compete,” he said.

“I’m currently back to about 70 to 80 percent. I expect to make my return pretty soon, likely early next year.

“I am 100 percent sticking with Muay Thai for sure. As for kickboxing, I still have that dream. I still have unfinished business with that belt.”