Tawanchai PK Saenchai has officially vacated the ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Title while continuing his recovery from a serious leg injury. Following the announcement, interim titleholder Nico Carrillo has been promoted to undisputed champion.


The decision brings Tawanchai’s long reign at the top of the featherweight division to an end. The Thai star captured the belt in September 2022, defeating Petchmorakot Petchyindee by unanimous decision at ONE 161.


Tawanchai went on to establish himself as one of the promotion’s leading Muay Thai fighters. He successfully defended the championship against Jamal Yusupov and twice against Superbon. He also recorded victories over Jo Nattawut in both Muay Thai and kickboxing competition.


However, Tawanchai’s career was interrupted by an injury suffered during his kickboxing bout against Liu Mengyang in December 2025. The contest ended after only 52 seconds when a calf kick left the Thai fighter unable to continue. Tawanchai later underwent surgery and began an extended rehabilitation period.




With no confirmed date for his return, Tawanchai chose to relinquish the championship rather than leave the featherweight division inactive. Although he no longer holds the belt, his achievements during nearly four years as champion remain an important part of ONE Championship history.


Nico Carrillo now takes over as the undisputed ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Champion. The Scottish fighter earned the interim belt earlier in 2026 by defeating Shadow Singha Mawynn by unanimous decision after five rounds at ONE Fight Night 40.




Known as the “King of the North,” Carrillo has built his reputation through aggressive pressure, powerful combinations and a series of impressive performances against elite opposition. His previous ONE victories include wins over Nong-O Hama, Muangthai PK Saenchai, Saemapetch Fairtex and Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong.


Carrillo will make his ONE kickboxing debut against China’s Zhou Jiaqiang at ONE Fight Night 46 on August 14 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. His first defense of the undisputed Muay Thai championship has not yet been announced.


Tawanchai’s decision changes the balance of one of ONE Championship’s strongest Muay Thai divisions. Carrillo is now the official champion, while the possibility of Tawanchai returning to challenge for his former title remains one of the division’s biggest future storylines.