A shift in weight classification bolsters Tengnueng Fairtex’s self-assurance as he approaches his potentially toughest assignment yet. The seasoned Thai competitor is convinced that shedding weight has amplified the speed and strength required to triumph over youth and fervor.
Tengnueng is slated to battle Tun Min Aung in a 165-pound Muay Thai headlining event at ONE Friday Fights 129 on Friday, October 17, held within the confines of Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. The 33-year-old representative of Fairtex Training Center is aiming for a rebound after his knockout defeat by Maksim Bakhtin at ONE Friday Fights 121 prompted him to reassess his optimal fighting weight.
Close to two decades of involvement and exceeding 100 professional contests have equipped Tengnueng for virtually any challenge one could imagine. However, the 19-year-old Myanmar phenomenon presents a distinctly different type of peril. Tun Min Aung has amassed an imposing 45-2-7 record through relentless aggression that overwhelms adversaries.
The left-handed striker has carefully examined his adversary’s shocking knockout setback against Abdelali Zahidi at ONE Friday Fights 88. That concluding head-kick exposed vulnerabilities that Tengnueng intends to capitalize on when opportunities arise. His own victorious comeback against Germain Kpoghomou at ONE Friday Fights 108 demonstrated that his finishing capabilities are still intact despite being knocked down twice early on.
The lightweight category proved too cumbersome for Tengnueng’s physique. Competing at a disadvantage in size and reach undermined his offensive capabilities and made securing victories more challenging. This contest at 165 pounds signifies a strategic new beginning before eventually transitioning to the featherweight division.
“For this upcoming bout, I am matched against Tun Min Aung, an adversary who possesses a slight height advantage over me. The disparity in age does not pose a concern, as I have diligently prepared myself to be in optimal physical condition as well,” he stated.
“The most notable aspect about him is his striking power. He adopts a southpaw stance, similar to myself, so I must exercise utmost caution.”
Tengnueng Fairtex sets his sights on securing a substantial six-figure contract breakthrough
Tun Min Aung’s impressive power earned him a second-round technical knockout victory over Chatpet Lampang Sports School at ONE Friday Fights 110. The young fighter followed that performance with a third-round stoppage of Tuan Quoc Tran, solidifying his position as one of the division’s most formidable finishers.
Tengnueng Fairtex acknowledges the potential threat but believes that his own capacity for destruction rivals anything that the Myanmar striker brings to the table. Both competitors recognize that this confrontation will likely conclude with the individual who lands the first decisive blow securing the victory. The veteran combatant feels rejuvenated, more agile, and sharper after gradually reducing his weight.
This transformation has revitalized his pursuit of a $100,000 contract to become part of ONE Championship’s primary roster. This aspiration fuels every training session as he prepares to showcase his genuine capabilities.
“I have studied and observed that he made a mistake previously and was vulnerable to a head kick, which resulted in a knockout loss. If he becomes careless again, I might be able to exploit that opening,” he commented.
“At this moment, my confidence level is at 100 percent. My physical condition is optimal, and I am prepared to secure another victory. I urge the fans to stay tuned and witness the upcoming spectacle. I will exhibit unwavering ferocity within the ring once more.”
