Changpuek Kiatsongrit

"White Elephant"

Changpuek Kiatsongrit is a legendary Thai Muay Thai fighter known for his international success and influence in promoting Muay Thai as a global martial art. He is a seven-time world champion who fought some of the best fighters across different weight classes. **BIO:** Somchai Ropkwaen, known professionally as Changpuek Kiatsongrit, was born on October 13, 1966, in Thailand. He began his professional fighting career in the mid-1980s, a period when Muay Thai was gaining recognition as Thailand’s national sport. Changpuek quickly rose through the ranks in local stadiums, showcasing his technical skill, stamina, and tactical intelligence. Changpuek's international career took off in the early 1990s when he began competing in major tournaments outside Thailand, including in Japan, Europe, and North America. He became one of the first Muay Thai fighters to compete against practitioners of other martial arts styles, often facing opponents who were stronger and heavier. His victories against world-class fighters such as Rob Kaman, Rick Roufus, and Peter Smit demonstrated the effectiveness of Muay Thai on the global stage. Despite facing challenges later in his career, including high-profile defeats to elite fighters like Ernesto Hoost and Andy Hug, Changpuek's fearless approach and willingness to face larger opponents solidified his legacy. He retired around 2006 after a career spanning over 300 fights. Post-retirement, he continued to contribute to the sport as a Muay Thai trainer at Sitpholek Gym in Pattaya, Thailand. **TITLES_WON:** - Seven-time world champion **NOTABLE_FIGHTS:** - vs. Rick Roufus — USA, 1988 (Win) - vs. Rob Kaman — Multiple locations, multiple dates (Wins) - vs. Ernesto Hoost — Location not specified, Date not specified (Loss) - vs. Andy Hug — Location not specified, Date not specified (Loss) **SIGNATURE_TECHNIQUES:** - Precise strikes - Tactical intelligence - Relentless determination **SOCIAL_MEDIA:** No social media URLs found in search results. **TRAINING_AVAILABILITY:** Changpuek Kiatsongrit is currently a Muay Thai coach at Sitpholek Gym in Pattaya, Thailand, where he continues to share his expertise with new generations of fighters.

Fighting Style: Muay Thai