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RAMON DEKKERS
Muay Thai Fighter
Even if you can speak no other words of the Thai language, most European and American visitors to Thailand will quickly become familiar with the Thai word “farang” (often mispronounced even by Thais) as “falang” –“farang” with a slightly trilled 'r' is the correct pronunciation.) It's basically used to describe Caucasians. It is not a racist thing.
Ramon Dekkers is probably the most respected “farang” Thai boxer of all times. Dekkers had the guts to go to Thailand and kick butt directly at the famous Lumpinee stadium. He kicked butt but also got his butt kicked. But no matter what, he stood up there and showed that the Dutch fighters are a menace.
He is probably the most respected foreigner in Thailand – fighting like the Thais. He fought them all – he fought them on their rules, in their land, in their rings – and he beat them. He was beaten sometimes himself - mostly on points - but he never turned down a fight. The Thai fighters have always and will always respect Ramon Dekkers for one thing: he never turned down a challenge. Dekkers in turn has always respected the Thai fighters. All these guys are the true champions of the sport.
Most professional fighters often avoid some fights in order not to ruin their perfect record. That does not necessarily mean that they are afraid of their opponent; sometimes they know that they are not ready to fight a dangerous opponent because of an injury, or they want to study him more. Some even wait for the opponent to pass his prime and fight him after he has had his share of injuries and loses. Ramon was not one of these fighters. If there were a world championship as far as courage and heart are concerned, Ramon Dekkers would be a true champion.
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