[Muay Thai]: Yodsaenklai perde contro ogni previsione
Long considered the best 70 kg fighter not in MAX, Yodsaenklai came into the fight a heavy favorite. Riding a near two year win streak which including winning the first season of The Contender Asia, Yod has catapulted to international fame in recent years. His opponent, Colossa, is a South African fighter who has faced many top names in the sport, but has not seen sustained success, going 4-4 in 2009. This was actually the 3rd meeting between the two fighters - Yodsaenklai had twice before defeated Colossa in 2008 and 2009.
On Saturday, reports indicate that Yodsaenklai fought with a slower pace, which some have criticized him for in recent fights. When the two men went the full five rounds, many viewers felt Yod had done enough to earn the decision, however it was Colossa who walked away the winner. No footage is yet available of this fight, though we will be sure to post it when we do have it.
It's hard to understate the significance of this upset. Many felt that Yod's success made it just a matter of time before he made his way to MAX - now you have to question if K-1 will go out of their way to get him on board. In addition, this is a severe blow to the perceived Thai dominance in what they consider their native combat sport. Recent years have seen a number of huge international Thai stars fall on tough times. Now, with Yodsaenklai losing and Pajonsuk being KO'd in the same weekend, combined with questions of Buakaw's longevity in MAX and ability to once again reach the top, Thailand may find itself on the outside looking in at the top level of the international Muay Thai scene. It will be very interesting to see what Yod's next move is from here, and if he can return to dominance.
