ONE Fight Night 39: Nong-O Believes Rambolek Ready For Championship Gold

The former longtime ONE bantamweight champion sees shades of himself in his student — and believes 2026 could be Rambolek's title year.

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Some fighters announce their intentions loudly. Others just show up, do the work, and leave. Nong-O Hama has seen both styles. And he’s convinced the quiet one is ready for gold.

Rambolek Chor Ajalaboon faces Russia’s Abdulla Dayakaev in the ONE Fight Night 39 main event on January 23 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok.

Both fighters enter on four-fight winning streaks. Both possess dangerous finishing power. And both understand that a dominant performance could position them as the next challenger for Nabil Anane’s bantamweight title.

But it’s Rambolek who has the legendary voice in his corner saying he’s ready — Nong-O, the teammate who’s watched him develop into a legitimate threat.

“Rambolek is naturally gifted. He has sharp weapons, heavy hands, and great ring vision. His personality is similar to [Johan Ghazali] — quiet, stays focused, and just goes home after training,” Nong-O said.

“My main focus with him has been building up his strength, stamina, and defense. Sometimes, when he faces more seasoned or sturdier opponents, he still has some gaps in his defense.”

That compliment isn’t made lightly. Rambolek does minimal talking, maximum working. He doesn’t need the spotlight during training. He doesn’t seek validation through social media. He just grinds, improves, and lets the fights speak.

The 22-year-old Thai sensation has backed up that work ethic with results. His four-fight winning streak includes increasingly impressive performances that show technical growth alongside his natural power.

Nong-O has focused on shoring up the defensive gaps that appear against elite opposition, understanding that championship-level fighters will exploit any opening.

But the confidence is already there. And for Nong-O, that mental edge combined with Rambolek’s physical tools creates championship potential.

“He’s very confident. Rambolek has made it clear: he wants the belt. His form is peaking, and his skills are already there. We’re just adding that extra boost of confidence and power. I believe he has what it takes to become a champion within 2026 if he puts on a great performance in this upcoming fight,” Nong-O said.

The path to that belt runs through Dayakaev, a 23-year-old Dagestani fighter with an 8-1 promotional record and six finishes. The Russian brings dangerous boxing and the kind of pressure that tests defensive discipline.

It’s the perfect litmus test for whether Rambolek’s defensive improvements have reached championship level.

Nong-O knows the challenge. He also knows that title shots don’t wait for perfect timing.

“If he wins this fight, Rambolek definitely earns his spot in that conversation,” Nong-O said. “Facing Nabil right now is a tall order because Nabil is on fire, but in the world of Muay Thai, anything can happen.”

Friday night at Lumpinee Stadium decides whether the quiet killer is ready to roar.

If you plan on watching the event live, be sure to check out my guide to Lumpinee Stadium: Ticket Prices, Best Seats, Fight Schedule, and More.

John Wolcott
John Wolcott

John Wolcott is a Bangkok-based Muay Thai journalist with over 20 years of experience covering the sport and culture. He specializes in athlete storytelling. John is also the creator of MuayThaiNews.com, hosted the The Muay Thai Show podcast, and produced the Muay Thai Journal video documentary series. A longtime Muay Thai practitioner, he has also worked as a commentator for Thailand's top stadiums and maintains close relationships with top promotions throughout Thailand. His deep immersion in Muay Thai culture provides unique insights into the sport's technical, cultural, and competitive landscape.

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