A living legend in the world of Muay Thai, former ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Champion Nong-O Hama has captured nearly every major accolade in the sport and is considered one of the greatest strikers of all time. What makes his accomplishments even more admirable is the fact they were borne of pure hard work and determination, as he came from humble beginnings.
Born to a family of farmers, Nong-O was raised in extreme poverty and began his Muay Thai career at the tender age of 9. He started training after watching his neighbor hitting a heavy bag, and he was so eager to compete that he had his first bout just one month later. After a few years of sharpening his skills, he made the difficult decision to leave home for Bangkok when he was 14 years old to pursue Muay Thai full-time, both living and training at his camp.
Nong-O made his first appearance at the famed Rajadamnern Stadium a year later, winning a decision in an undercard bout. This set off an incredible run of success across over 300 bouts, including two Thailand national Muay Thai Championships, four Lumpinee Stadium Muay Thai World Championships in different divisions, and a Rajadamnern Stadium Muay Thai World Championship.
In April 2018, he signed with ONE Championship and cemented his legacy by claiming the inaugural ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Title just 10 months later. The Thai icon defended the gold seven times and even knocked out five straight challengers.
Nong-O surrendered the belt to British superstar Jonathan Haggerty in April 2023, but he is undoubtedly eager to use that setback to push himself forward.
