Thway Lin Htet Vows Early Finish Against Veteran Kongchai in ONE Friday Fights 140 Headliner
The loss to Sam-A Gaiyanghadao still stings for Thway Lin Htet, even months later. Dropping a Muay Thai legend in round two meant nothing when the final scorecards favored experience over youth, leaving the 22-year-old Myanmar striker hungrier than ever to prove his explosive style belongs among the elite.
At ONE Friday Fights 140 on January 30, Thway Lin Htet gets his redemption opportunity when he faces battle-tested Thai veteran Kongchai Chanaidonmueang in a strawweight Muay Thai main event at Lumpinee Stadium. Both fighters enter chasing the same dream — a life-changing six-figure ONE Championship contract.
Thway Lin Htet brings a formidable 31-2 striking record and legitimate knockout power that’s produced three finishes across his 5-2 promotional mark. His lethwei background translates into forward pressure that overwhelms opponents before they settle into rhythm, a strategy that’s carried him through most of his ONE Friday Fights tenure since debuting in 2024.
But Kongchai represents a different challenge entirely. The 23-year-old Thai carries a staggering 76-16 career record and former Rajadamnern World Championship pedigree that speaks to decades spent mastering the art of eight limbs. Since making his promotional debut at ONE Friday Fights 3, Kongchai has compiled 15 fights against the weekly series’ toughest competition, emerging battle-tested from every encounter.
None of that intimidates Thway Lin Htet, who plans to implement immediate aggression that prevents the Thai veteran from finding his groove. The soft-spoken Myanmar destroyer explained his tactical approach with characteristic simplicity, his words carrying weight despite their brevity.
“My plan for the first round is to put on the pressure so he can’t find his rhythm,” Thway Lin Htet said. “From there, I’ll look for the right opening and try to find a way to score a knockout.”
That philosophy centers on overwhelming opponents before they establish their game, a strategy that’s produced spectacular knockouts throughout his young career. Against Kongchai’s vast experience, that early aggression could prove decisive in setting the tone for the entire bout.
The approach reflects Thway Lin Htet’s entire fighting identity — explosive, dangerous, and unrelenting. His forward-marching style creates constant danger for anyone standing across from him, forcing opponents to make split-second decisions under immense pressure. Kongchai’s experience will be tested immediately as the Myanmar striker looks to impose his will from the opening bell.
For Thway Lin Htet, this main event represents more than just another showcase. It’s his chance to erase the memory of falling short against Sam-A and position himself back on track toward the main roster contract that would transform his career trajectory.
“I know I have to make a name for myself and prove my worth as a fighter,” Thway Lin Htet said. “That’s why I give it my all — to show the fans that I’m a true warrior. I definitely won’t let the fans down.”
Away from the ring, few would recognize the explosive finisher who creates highlight-reel knockouts inside Lumpinee Stadium. While fans witness his aggressive approach that makes him one of Muay Thai’s most exciting young talents, the 22-year-old remains remarkably reserved when the cameras stop rolling.
When asked about his personality outside training and competition, Thway Lin Htet revealed a side that contrasts sharply with his fighting persona.
“I’m the same way at home,” Thway Lin Htet said. “I’m an introvert. I do have friends, but we don’t hang out that much. I prefer staying quietly at home.”
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