In the world of kickboxing, few names evoke as much admiration and awe as Ramon Dekkers. Known as “The Diamond,” Dekkers was a Dutch fighter who blazed through the Muay Thai and kickboxing scenes in the 1980s and 1990s. But was he truly the best kickboxer ever? That’s a question worth unpacking — not just for his highlight-reel knockouts, but for what he meant to the sport.

Dekkers wasn’t your typical Muay Thai champion. He wasn’t from Thailand, didn’t fight in the traditional style, and wasn’t always favored by judges when fighting there. But what he did bring was a relentless, forward-moving, no-nonsense style that thrilled fans and earned him the respect of even the toughest Thai warriors.

He became one of the first foreign fighters to consistently defeat elite Thai fighters on their own turf — a feat that was nearly unthinkable at the time. Dekkers faced legends like Coban Lookchaomaesaitong, Namphon Nongkee Pahuyuth, and Sagat Petchyindee, often going toe-to-toe in wars that tested his durability and willpower.

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What made Dekkers special wasn’t just his record or titles — though he racked up plenty. It was his impact. He opened the door for Western fighters to be taken seriously in Thailand, the homeland of Muay Thai. His explosive punching power, unrelenting aggression, and refusal to back down made him a global icon.

So, was Ramon Dekkers the best ever? That depends on your criteria. Technically, others might have been more well-rounded. Statistically, others may have had more wins. But in terms of influence, excitement, and changing the game — Dekkers is undoubtedly one of the greatest to ever do it.

In the eyes of fans, and even in the hearts of many of his opponents, Ramon Dekkers wasn’t just a fighter — he was a legend

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