Robert Kaennorasing: Architect of Technical Brilliance | Biography & Best Fights
Nurtured within the renowned Jocky Gym, a bastion of technical prowess in 90s Thailand, Robert Kaennorasing emerged as a symbol of excellence in the ring. His journey from humble origins, coupled with his mastery of Muay Thai tactics, cemented his place in the ethereal realm of combat sports lore.
| Name: | Robert Kaennorasing |
| Birth Name: | Pinit Somphet |
| Thai Name: | โรเบิร์ต แก่นนรสิงห์ |
| Date of Birth: | April 29th 1972 |
| Place of Birth: | Khon Kaen Province, Thailand |
| Height: | 1.74 m (5 ft 8+1⁄2 in) |
| Weight: | 59 kg (130 lb; 9.3 st) |
| Style: | Muay Thai, Fimeu |
| Occupation: | Muay Thai trainer |
| Stance: | Southpaw |
| Fighting out of: | Bangkok, Thailand |
| Team: | Jockygym Kaennorasing (1984–1987) |
Robert was born in a small village near the city of Khon Kaen in Issan province, which has been renowned for producing numerous esteemed Thai fighters over the years, including Pudpadnoi Warrawut, Karuhat Sor Supawan, Cherry Sor Wanich, Krongsak Boranrat, and Somrak Khamsing. At the age of 12, Robert embarked on his Muay Thai journey in his village alongside his younger brother Rolex, who also became a celebrated fighter. They trained at the Kaennorasing gym, where future champions like Wanwiset Kaennorasing and Wanpichit Kaennorasing also honed their skills. The gym, owned by Master Kaendjai Norrasingh, was conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from Robert’s home. It was here that Mr. Norrasingh bestowed upon Robert the fighting name “Adisak Kaennorasing”.
Robert claimed victory in his debut bout, earning a prize of 150 baht. He eventually fought a total of 70 times for the gym, establishing himself as a highly skilled Muay Femur fighter and garnering a formidable reputation in the northeastern region of Thailand.
When he turned 15, Robert joined Jocky Gym located in the Bang Pho district of Bangkok. Jocky Gym was founded by Master Soma Thong Sakoun in 1974, and quickly earned a reputation as a prolific breeding ground for champions. It cultivated legendary fighters like Somrak Khamsing, Saenchai, Lerdsila Chumpairtour, Kaoklai Kaennorasing, and numerous others.
It was during his time at Jocky Gym that he adopted the name “Robert,” transitioning from his former name “Adisak,” while retaining his training camp name “Kaennorasing.” Thus, Robert Kaennorasing was born.
Rising Star at Rajadamnern
Robert’s reputation in the Thai stadiums was growing, defeating well-known fighters in Samrong Stadium such as Manasak Pleukdaeng and achieving a draw against top contender Rittidet Sor Ploenchit in 1988. The following year, Robert continued his winning streak, including notable victories over the formidable puncher Lakhin Wassandasit.
These victories led to him earning a shot at the Rajadamnern 105 lbs title in September of that year, when he was just 17 years old. His opponent was Songkram Porpaoin, a powerful puncher from Phetchabun Province. Robert emerged victorious in a points decision, claiming the 105 lbs Rajadamnern championship.
In September 1990, Robert entered the 2nd Isuzu Cup 8-Man Tournament at Samrong Stadium in Samut Prakan. With bouts spaced two months apart, he first outscored Prakardseuk Kiatmuangtrang in the initial fight, then battled Muay Bouk Chartchainoi Chaorai-Oi in the semi-final, winning on points. In the final, he faced “the elbow hunter of 100 stitches,” Yodkhunpon Sittraipum, and won by decision, seizing the tournament title at the age of 19.
In 1991, Robert experienced another remarkable year, beating several tough opponents such as Neungsiam Kiatvichian and Padejsuek Kiatsamran. However, he faced a tough challenge against the then 122 lbs Rajadamnern champion, Rajasak Sor Vorapin, a ferocious Muay Khao fighter from Buriram province known as “The Deadly Knee.”
Despite a loss to Rajasak via judges’ decision in June of that year, Robert swiftly avenged this defeat three months later during a winning streak that propelled him to another title fight, this time at 126 lbs.
Robert displayed tactical brilliance against the reigning 126 lbs champion and emerged victorious, claiming the 126 lbs Rajadamnern title.
Two months later, Robert defended his newly acquired title against an old adversary in Padejsuek Kiatsamran who had been enjoying a streak of victories by employing his long teeps and powerful left kicks. Nonetheless, Robert managed to outmanoeuvre the strong southpaw, successfully defending his 126 lbs title for the first time. Interestingly, it was Robert’s teep that ended the bout against Padejsuek, turning Padejsuek’s favoured weapon against him.
That year, Robert went on an incredible run of title defences, defeating Rajasak Sor Vorapin, Jack Kiatniwat, and the technical master from Korat, Buakaw Por Pisitchet.
Just a month later, Robert prepared for what would be his toughest test yet: a showdown with the reigning 130 lbs Lumpinee Stadium champion, “The Ring Genius” Namkabuan Nongkeepahuyuth. The highly anticipated bout was set to unfold at Rajadamnern Stadium, pitting the Rajadamnern champion against the Lumpinee champion.
That evening, spectators witnessed a breathtaking showcase of technical skill from both fighters, with the Rajadamnern champion ultimately outshining his Lumpinee counterpart. This remarkable clash earned the distinction of the Sports Writers Association of Thailand Fight of the Year Award for 1992.
In 1993, Robert faced a challenging start to the year with defeats against Therdkiat Sittepitak, who was a former 126 lbs titleholder determined to reclaim his rank in Lumpinee, and Komphet Lukprabat, who secured his second victory over Robert in the space of 18 months.
However, later that year, Robert found himself in a position to contend for the 130 lbs Rajadamnern title against Komphet’s former stablemate, Jongrak Kai-Adisorn, signaling a potential shift in his fortunes.
Robert emerged victorious in the fight by decision, sparking a trilogy of matches against Jongrak.
The first title defense against Jongrak took place in October and concluded with a draw. However, the spectators, particularly the gamblers in attendance, expressed their discontent with the outcome. Boos echoed throughout the packed stadium, and debris was hurled into the ring upon the announcement.
This created the perfect backdrop for a rematch the following month to resolve the matter.
Robert successfully defended his title for the second time against Jongrak with a split decision victory.
This triumphant period was followed by three sobering defeats, including losses to familiar opponents Therdkiat and Namkabuan in November 1993 and May 1994, respectively.
Additionally, Robert suffered a knockout loss to a rampant Jongsanan Fairtex a month later, who subsequently claimed the 135 lbs Lumpinee title in his very next bout against “Psycho” Chandet Sor Prantalay.
Retreat from the Spotlight
From 1995, Robert significantly reduced his fight frequency. However, he achieved notable victories during this period, including a memorable win against the renowned southpaw kicker Pairot Wor Wolapon at Rajadamnern Stadium, as well as a win over Panmongkol Carryboy, and two victories against Tappaya Sit-Or at the Channel 7 Stadium.
In 2000, Robert faced off against French sensation Jean-Charles Skarbowsky in Las Vegas for the 65kg I.S.K.A. Muay Thai World Title. Skarbowsky, riding a 20-fight winning streak, had recently defeated several well-known Thai fighters, including the #4 Lumpinee-ranked fighter Duan Esarn at the King’s Birthday event in Sanam Luang.
Skarbowsky wasted no time asserting himself in the match and landed a flush combination on Robert in the very first round, securing victory by knockout. This unexpected outcome saw Skarbowsky, initially considered the underdog, emerge triumphant over the more seasoned Robert.
Six months later, the stage was set for the rematch at the King’s Birthday event in Bangkok.
Robert sought redemption and succeeded, defeating Skarbowsky by a points decision and becoming the new WPMF 140 lbs champion.
In the latter stages of his career, Robert frequently withdrew from fights last-minute, leading to a reduction in his fight schedule. Promoters and gamblers grew wary of his physical condition and doubted his readiness to perform at the demanding standards set by Thai stadiums.
Now in his early thirties, Robert competed against lower tier opposition in China and the US up until 2004, but with little success.
Robert Kaennorasing Legacy
Robert’s fighting style will be remembered as one of the most aesthetically pleasing in Muay Thai history. Today, he aims to impart his wealth of knowledge and skills to the next generation at Jean-Charles Skarbowsky’s Gym in Paris, where he has worked as a coach for several years.
Jean-Charles, who also trained at the old Jocky Gym during the 1990s while he was fighting in Thailand, later acquired the gym. It remains operational to this day.
