One of the most intriguing matchups on ONE’s historic all-Muay Thai card will see American sensation Luke “The Chef” Lessei make his celebrated promotional debut against accomplished Thai veteran “Smokin” Jo Nattawut.
Set for this Friday in U.S. primetime, their highly anticipated featherweight Muay Thai clash could end up stealing the show at ONE Fight Night 17: Kryklia vs. Roberts on Prime Video.
Before these exciting strikers throw down at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, we break down each of their biggest keys to victory.
#1 Lessei’s Unpredictability
Lessei joins the likes of Asa Ten Pow and Eddie Abasolo in representing the new wave of American Muay Thai strikers who are now making their marks on the global stage. Like his compatriots, his style could be described in a myriad of ways: dynamic, unique, unorthodox, and creative.
In short, “The Chef” brings a great deal of unpredictability to the ring – something that should serve him well against #4-ranked contender “Smokin” Jo.
Despite the Thai’s significant edge in experience, he has likely never faced an opponent quite like Lessei. So, he could be in for a surprise when the man from Iowa starts attacking from odd angles and piecing together combinations in his flashy and distinctive style.
#2 Nattawut’s Power Punches
Any fight involving Nattawut deserves a mention of his show-stopping punching power.
Indeed, the 34-year-old has employed that legendary power to amass an impressive 71 career victories, three highlight-reel knockouts in ONE, and a top-five spot in the stacked featherweight Muay Thai rankings.
Look for him to put in plenty of work at mid-range, countering the American’s strikes with massive punches and forcing Lessei against the ropes, where he can unload vicious boxing combinations.
#3 Lessei’s Long-Range Weapons
In order to avoid his opponent’s dangerous punches, Lessei should keep the fight at a longer range, where he can pick the veteran apart.
“The Chef” is a master of fighting from distance, employing a wide variety of stabbing kicks and straight punches to keep his opposition confused and on the defensive.
What’s more, the 27-year-old is tall for the division and will hold a meaningful reach advantage over Nattawut, and those physical edges will play a pivotal role in how this contest plays out.
#4 Nattawut’s Leg Kicks
While the Thai Top Team representative is best known for his ruthless boxing attack, fans shouldn’t forget that he also possesses devastating leg kicks.
Much like he did in his thrilling 2019 victory over the towering Samy Sana, Nattawut will likely utilize a heavy leg-kicking game to both score points and slow down “The Chef’s” trademark movement.
And if he’s able to hurt Lessei with a lower-body attack, look for “Smokin” Jo to unleash his vaunted power punches and aggressively pursue another spectacular knockout.
