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Ramon DekkersDutch Thai boxer, former eight-time Muay Thai world champion
Date of Birth: 04.09.1969
Country:  Netherlands |
Content:
Biography of Ramon Dekkers
Ramon Dekkers was a Dutch kickboxer and former eight-time Muay Thai world champion. He was born in Breda, North Brabant, Netherlands. Dekkers began studying martial arts at the age of 12. He initially trained in judo for a few months before switching to boxing for a year. Afterward, he entered the world of Thai boxing and trained under the guidance of Cor Hemmers.
Early Career
Dekkers won his first tournament at the age of 18, which was the national championship on November 15, 1987. His success would not have been possible without his coach, Cor Hemmers, who played a significant role in his career. Hemmers not only recognized Dekkers' immense potential but also contributed significantly to his upbringing. At the age of 16, before his first professional fight, Hemmers discussed the boy's future with his mother. Interestingly, after that meeting, Hemmers grew close to Dekkers' mother, and they eventually got married.
In his first fight at the age of 16, Dekkers knocked out a well-known boxer who was much older than him. He continued to finish almost every fight with a knockout. Despite weighing only 55 kg, his opponents claimed that he hit much harder than he appeared. With each knockout, his name grew in the world of Thai boxing. Dekkers' first manager was Clovis Depretz, the manager of Rob Kaman. Kaman and Dekkers often trained together and became close friends. In Thailand, this pair was known as the "Dutch duo." He won his first title at the age of 18 by winning the Dutch National Championship on November 15, 1987.
Fighting Style and Legacy
Dekkers fought against the best fighters in Thailand, sometimes winning and sometimes losing. He was not skilled in scoring points; his focus was always on knockout victories. Another drawback of Dekkers was that he never turned down a fight. He was willing to fight anyone, anywhere, and under any circumstances. Even injuries did not stop him. There were times when Dekkers fought at least one match every week, earning him great respect in the world of Thai boxing.
Dekkers was known for his indomitable character, which helped him win numerous fights. Once, during a fight in Germany, Dekkers had his eyebrow cut with an elbow strike. During the break between rounds, Cor Hemmers stitched up the wound without any anesthesia. Imagine how the audience supported him after that.
Last Fights and Retirement
On Sunday, March 18, 2001, Dekkers fought in his farewell match against Marino De Florijn in Rotterdam. In the fourth round, Dekkers knocked out De Florijn with a left hook. Dekkers dominated the entire fight, showcasing his style and aggression. Afterward, he joined the Golden Glory club, where he became a trainer.
After his retirement, Dekkers was quite busy, training in two clubs: Team Dekkers and Golden Glory. However, in 2005, Dekkers shocked the world by signing a contract with K-1. The fight took place under MMA rules. Dekkers, who had no experience in mixed martial arts, lost to Genki Sudo by a leg lock submission.
Dekkers' manager organized another fight for him, this time under K-1 rules. His opponent was American Duane Ludwig. A few days before the fight, Dekkers injured his shoulder ligaments. Despite the severe pain in his left shoulder, Dekkers dominated every round and ultimately won by a decision.
Dekkers' final fight took place on May 13, 2006, at the Grand Prix in Amsterdam. His opponent was Yori Mes. After both fighters were knocked down in the second round, Mes won by a decision.
Currently, Ramon Dekkers is involved in coaching activities. His contribution to the development of Dutch Muay Thai and kickboxing has been significant. He is remembered as one of the best fighters and a magnet for spectators. Dekkers' powerful strikes often instilled fear in his opponents. His legacy has greatly elevated the level and ranking of the Netherlands in these sports. It remains to be seen how many more years will pass before a fighter of his caliber emerges.
