Kangwanlek Petyindee Makes Successful Comeback 10 Months After Being Shot

Last Updated on Saturday, 30 June 2012 18:11 Saturday, 30 June 2012 17:37

Written by James Goyder

Kangwanlek Petyindee returned to action 10 months after being shot in the chest in a late night altercation (read the report I wrote for The Nation newspaper here) on Friday night, defeating Petnakorn Sorlatda Gym at Lumpini Stadium.

At 37 years old Kangwanlek is by far the oldest fighter still competing at the highest level in Thailand and held two different national titles at various times last year.

His career appeared to be over last August as he was hit by a bullet when his friend became embroiled in an argument after visiting a restaurant in Thonburi.

Kangwanlek spend three days in the intensive care unit and several weeks in hospital but a couple of months ago he returned to training and last Friday night was his first fight since the shooting.

He was up against a fighter 16 years younger than him and found himself on the receiving end of some solid kicks in the first two rounds of this bantamweight contest.

In the crucial third and fourth rounds the veteran used all his experience to pull away on the scorecards by landing the more effective kicks and being a little bit busier in the clinch. In round five he boxed intelligently to defend the lead and with about a minute to go Petnakorn conceded defeat.

It was an impressive performance from the 37 year old who showed no real signs of ring rust and will want to be involved in a few more big money fights before he retires.

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