Sanit Wichitkriengkrai

Sanit Rungthep (; born August 11, 1965), known professionally as Sanit Wichitkriengkrai , is a Thai former professional Muay Thai fighter.

Biography and career

Sanit started to train in Muay Thai in his native Ratchaburi province under the teaching of his uncle and father. He came to Bangkok for the first time in 1981 and was rapidly scouted. He became a popular fighter of the 1980s competing for the most powerful promoter of the time Songchai Rattanasuban. Nicknamed the "Leaping Tiger" due to the tiger tattoo on his chest, Sanit was known for his southpaw kicking technique. The most importnant rivalries os Sanit's career where against Samransak Muangsurin who he faced four times and Chanchai Sor.Tamarangsri who he faced five times. During his career Sanit defeated many notable champions such as Paruhatlek Sitchunthong, Phanrit Luksrirat, Bangkhlanoi Sor.Thanikul, Yoknoi Fairtex, Saengsakda Kittikasem, Phayannoi Sor Tasanee, Sakmongkol Sithchuchok or Superlek Sorn E-Sarn.

Sanit and Chanchai fought each other for the Lumpinee Stadium Bantamweight title twice, the first time on October 11, 1985, Chanchai won by decision. Sanit won the rematch on January 18, 1986, taking home the title. Chanchai was also the opponent in his retirement bout which happened on March 17, 1992, and saw Sanit win by decision.

On September 27, 1991, Sanit faced Therdkiat Sitthepitak in a fight for the vacant Lumpinee Stadium Featherweight title. He lost by decision.

In Thai, he is known by the nickname "ไอ้เสือเผ่น" (Ai Suea Phen; "the leaping tiger"), a name inspired by the large leaping tiger tattoo that dominates the center of his chest.

Sanit had regular issues with his shoulder which he dislocated numerous times including during his fight against Yoknoi Fairtex on December 19, 1986. These repeated injuries forced him out of competition for lengthy periods and precipitated his decision to retire.

After retiring, Sanit became a Muay Thai trainer in his native province. He teaches at the Sor.Singyu camp.

Titles and accomplishments Lumpinee Stadium 1986 Lumpinee Stadium Bantamweight (118 lbs) Champion

Fight record