Kongklai Vs Adam Benwarwar At ONE Friday Fights 162

The July 17 Asia primetime series from Bangkok’s Lumpinee Stadium will crown a new bantamweight Muay Thai champion at ONE Friday Fights 162. Kongklai Sor Sommai returns after a recent loss, while Adam “El Capitano” Benwarwar looks to prove his technique outweighs his size. Both are also eyeing a US$100,000 main roster contract that hangs in the balance of their upcoming clash.

Kongklai’s Path Back to Victory

Kongklai Sor Sommai, a 27‑year‑old with an 83‑23 overall record, suffered a unanimous decision loss to Julio Lobo at ONE Friday Fights 152. The Thai fighter frames the defeat as a minor hiccup, noting that the fight was close when he received the eight‑count but that late‑round fatigue prevented a comeback. He emphasizes that confidence remains intact, citing a lifetime of Muay Thai experience.

His promotional history is dominated by finishes—almost every win comes via knockout. He has stopped Paedsanlek PK Saenchai with head knees, knocked out Deniz “Bad Boy” Demirkapu, and subdued Ferrari Fairtex with a powerful left hook. After a stretch without bonuses, Kongklai focuses on executing his game plan rather than forcing a finish.

In the gym he says he is ready to work, warning that if his opponent engages in a punch‑to‑punch exchange the bout will be “absolute fire.” He labels Adam’s strengths—size, hard punches, and speed—but also points out that Benwarwar’s other techniques fall short of his own comprehensive Muay Thai arsenal.

Benwarwar’s Mission to Prove Himself

Adam “El Capitano” Benwarwar, a 23‑year‑old Moroccan, turned a banner year around with a 52‑second knockout of Kendu Irving in May, marking his 24th career win. Irving remains the only fighter to have taken Kongklai the full distance, a fact Benwarwar says fuels his determination. The Moroccan declares he will showcase all facets of his Muay Thai beyond mere power.

He trains at Petchsaman Gym in Pattaya and has studied Kongklai’s rhythm closely. Benwarwar observes that the Thai’s attack tempo can be slow and that he spends time deliberating before acting. He also acknowledges Kongklai’s clinch work but believes the Thai’s striking toolbox lacks depth outside the clinch.

Confidence in his right hook drives Benwarwar’s preparation. He estimates a 90 % chance of a knockdown if the hook lands, indicating he expects a decisive finish in rounds one, two, or three. A victory would give him consecutive highlight‑reel wins and intensify his case for a lucrative main roster deal.

High Stakes for Both Warriors

Beyond personal bragging rights, the bantamweight showdown carries contract implications for both men. The winner moves a step closer to the coveted US$100,000 main roster contract that ONE Championship offers to top performers. The bout follows The Inner Circle 22, underscoring the weekly series’ role as a proving ground.

The event sits on the Asia primetime schedule, broadcasting from the storied Lumpinee Stadium to a worldwide audience. Fans can expect a blend of veteran experience—Kongklai’s 83‑fight résumé and Benwarwar’s rapid ascent—and the high‑octane Muay Thai action that defines ONE Friday Fights.