Grangpee Upsets Uzbek Fighter; Chakrapong Advances at Asian Games
Thai Muay Thai boxer Grangpee Bokuntod pulled off an upset victory over higher-ranked Uzbek opponent Samandan Olimov at the Asian Games in Japan on September 26, advancing to the quarterfinals. Chakrapong Yamkote also progressed with a unan
Muay Thai competition at the 20th Asian Games at Nishio Gymnasium in Japan on September 26, 2025, featured Thai boxers competing in the round of 16 across three weight divisions.
In the women's 60 kg division, Phunravee Ruenros (formerly Chutamad Jitrapongse) faced Yang Cheng'awei of China. After three rounds, judges awarded the split decision victory 3–2 to the Chinese fighter, eliminating Thailand's third boxer at the round of 16 stage.
In the men's 55 kg division, Grangpee Bokuntod faced Samandan Olimov of Uzbekistan. Despite meeting a higher-ranked opponent, Grangpee displayed skilled technique and secured an upset split decision victory 3–2 to advance to the quarterfinals. He will face a Mongolian champion for the bronze medal on September 28. Grangpee said he remained calm in the first round despite trailing on points, adjusted his approach in the second by mixing strikes with timing, and pressed forward aggressively in the third round to clinch victory. He acknowledged the Mongolian opponent is dangerous but said he will employ controlled striking and confidence to advance.
In the men's 90 kg division, Chakrapong Yamkote defeated Rabin Nepal of Nepal by unanimous decision 5–0 to advance to the quarterfinals for the bronze medal match against a Chinese boxer on September 28. Chakrapong said he boxed at a relaxed pace since his opponent was not a major threat, using the bout as warm-up and practice for range control to avoid injury in the upcoming bronze medal bout. He cautioned that the Chinese boxer is strong and said he will do his best.
