Welcome to the explosive world of kickboxing, where dynamism and sheer madness collide! Not for the faint of heart, kickboxing thrives on unrelenting grit and a dash of “bring it on.”
It is a discipline that can combine, for instance, different martial arts such as the flair of Muay Thai, boxing, taekwondo, and karate. In other words, kickboxing is the result of this epic fusion.
The reason why a fighter is in the position described below is because of his professional characteristics, such as technique, skill, and professional record. As you can imagine, this topic is highly subjective.
So get ready for a mind-blowing journey as we discuss the best kickboxers of all time. You’re in for a rollercoaster ride of powerful punches, elegant moves, and the kind of gutsy determination that will make you want to jump in the ring yourself, just not with them!
1. Buakaw Banchamek
| Years Active | 1990 to present |
| Birth Country | Thailand |
| Professional Record | 240 wins, 24 losses, 14 draws |
Buakaw Banchamek is a name that’s not just a name but a synonym for kickboxing greatness! A kid with the audacity to start his journey in a rustic Thai village at the mere age of 8. Buakaw, a shining protégé of Por Pramuk gym, was like a human magnet for titles.
Numbers don’t lie, and Buakaw’s numbers are like a neon sign screaming “unbeatable.” With a jaw-dropping 240 wins, 24 losses, and 14 draws, he’s not just a fighter; he’s a walking hurricane of dominance in the ring. His punches were like fireworks, his kicks like lightning bolts, and his victories like sweet symphonies played on the world stage. K-1 Max? More like “Buakaw Max”!
His strikes are precise, powerful, and incredibly fast. His punches are accurate, and his defensive skills are next level. His evasive movements, blocks, and efficiency make him undoubtedly one of the GOATs.
Then, cue the showdown of the century in 2012, when he clashed with his gym like a titan. But did he back down? Nope! He opened his very own training haven, Banchamek, a shrine to his audacity and independence. Buakaw isn’t just a fighter; he’s a cultural torchbearer. He embodies Thai culture and martial arts, inspiring fighters and fans across galaxies.
From rural beginnings to global stardom, Buakaw Banchamek is the embodiment of audacity, talent, and the magic of a well-placed kick.
2. Semmy Schilt
| Years Active | 9 years |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 43 wins, 6 losses, 1 draw |
Next up, we have kickboxing extraordinaire Semmy” Schilt, a man who turned the ring into his personal playground of pain and glory. This guy’s kicks were so ferocious they could probably beat any fighter in this rank. His career was like a wild ride through kickboxing and mixed martial arts amusement parks, and guess what? He owned the rollercoaster.
Schilt’s K-1 World Grand Prix wins are uncommon. Not content with one, two, or even three victories, he bagged four titles, making it look as easy as swatting flies. The K-1 Grand Prix was the ultimate showdown of fighters from every corner of Earth. And there’s Schilt, striding out of the chaos like a boss, ready to show gravity who’s the real boss.
Kicks like sledgehammers on a mission, punches that painted the sky with stars, the non-Hollywood kind. Fights ended quicker than a microwave burrito, leaving jaws hanging like forgotten laundry.
He was the Einstein of the ring, outsmarting rivals like a strategist with a mean streak. So there you have it. Semmy Schilt, the man who turned fighting into an art form and the ring into his personal comedy stage of bone-cracking brilliance. He kicked his way into history books, and bruises everywhere salute him.
3. Ramon Dekkers
| Years Active | 16 years |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 186 wins, 33 losses, 2 draws |
In the third place, of course, “The Versatile Tornado” Ramon Dekkers. Another guy with breathtaking kicks. They once knocked a sensei’s mustache straight! Hailing from Breda, Netherlands, this human dynamo was born on September 4, 1969, a date that sent shivers down the spines of punching bags everywhere. His talent was so obvious even as a kid that his pacifier was shaped like a mini boxing glove.
Dekkers’ martial arts journey was like a buffet of combat styles. He sampled judo at 12 (probably suplexing teddy bears), tried his fists at boxing, and finally thought, “You know what? Kicking people is my true calling!” And that’s how he became the Muay Thai maestro we all know. He snatched the Lumpinee champion title, a fancy Thai kickboxing belt that’s probably studded with gem-encrusted mouthguards. He took down Nongkee Pahuyuth, the reigning champion, like a kid stealing candy from a sleeping wrestler.
It was like a cosmic wrestling match with punches and kicks instead of body slams. Huge technical prowess, explosive strikes, and incredible intelligence in the ring. This is a key feature in this sport (apart from the good kicks or punches), to read the opponent’s movements and dominate it.
Dekkers’ impact on the sport is so profound that punching bags everywhere secretly aspire to be him. His story isn’t just an inspiration; it’s like a roundhouse kick of motivation to anyone who dreams of turning their passion into a pummeling symphony. Ramon Dekkers is, without a doubt, one of the best kickboxers of all time.
4. Peter Aerts
| Years Active | 29 years |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 108 wins, 35 losses, 1 draw |
Born in Eindhoven, Netherlands, on October 25, 1970, in the fourth position: Peter Aerts. He started at age fourteen, and he didn’t just dip his toes in; he cannonballed into the world of Muay Thai.
This guy’s greatness is so immense even Mount Everest asked for his autograph. Aerts, also known as the “Kick-tastrophe,” is like a walking thunderstorm of kicks and punches. He’s not just in the fourth position; he’s in the “Holy Moly, did you see that kick?!” position. His kicks are so powerful they once knocked an opponent into a parallel universe where everyone communicates through roundhouse kicks. Opponents didn’t fall; they performed involuntary acrobatics. His high kicks had the force of a freight train and the grace of a ballet dancer on steroids.
A three-time K-1 World Grand Prix champ? That’s like winning the lottery three times in a row. His kicks were so accurate they once kicked the “I” out of “impossible.” And those Grand Prix victories? It’s like he had a magical potion made of victory and determination.
To sum up: Peter Aerts, the “Kick-pire,” with his sky-high kicks, unbreakable spirit, and career that’s hotter than a volcano in a sauna, reigns supreme as the kickboxing kingpin. His legacy isn’t just written in history books; it’s always reflected in rankings like this one.
5. Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic
| Years Active | 18 years |
| Birth Country | Croatia |
| Professional Record | 35 wins, 11 losses, 2 draws |
I am afraid of what he could do in his days in the antiterrorist Alpha police unit. Maybe it could be considered a human taser.
Crocop didn’t just start in kickboxing; he arrived like a meteor of mayhem, following his buddy Branko Cikatić’s footsteps. And from the get-go, it was like the universe was yelling, “Hold onto your hats, folks; we’ve got a talent tornado on the loose!”
Crocop’s kicks were like thunderbolts of doom, and his precision striking? Let’s just say he could hit a fly with a sledgehammer if he wanted to. He wasn’t just a fighter; he was a walking highlight reel of powerful kicks and punch lines.
In the K-1 tournament finals in 1999, his body was bruised and battered from the semifinals. It’s like he turned injuries into his sidekicks, helping him reach the finals just for the fun of it. But wait, there’s more! Crocop didn’t stop at kickboxing. He ventured into the wild world of mixed martial arts like a fearless explorer searching for new opponents to kick around. The UFC welcomed him like a long-lost karate cousin, and he wowed the crowd with his striking skills and unwavering desire to be awesome.
Mirko “Crocop” Filipović isn’t just a name; it’s a legend, a myth, a legend-myth. His legacy in combat sports is so huge it has its own gravitational pull. Generations to come will still be hearing stories of his epic battles and his kicks that could rearrange reality itself.
6. Ernesto Hoost
| Years Active | 23 years |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 101 wins, 21 losses, 1 draw |
In sixth place, we have the legend Ernesto Hoost. The four-time K1 World Champion, Ernesto Hoost, began his journey in combat sports at the age of 15 because he believed it could be useful on the streets. However, as he progressed in his training, he never actually used it in practice (thank God).
Ernesto Hoost’s impeccable technique has earned him the nickname “Mr. Perfect,” with contact sports experts claiming that it is difficult to find technical mistakes in Hoost’s fights. When in good physical condition, Ernesto is virtually unbeatable.
However, the second fight between the two was in 1990. Everyone was betting on Hoost; he dominated Kaman for most of the fight, and he won on points, but a right hook sent him to the canvas. In 1993, Ernesto made his debut in the K-1 World Grand Prix tournament and reached the final of the tournament, where he was defeated by Branco Cikatic.
Ernesto Hoost’s storied career, marked by championship victories, unmatched skills, and relentless dedication, positions him as the ultimate kickboxing legend. His accomplishments, combined with his influence as a mentor, make a compelling case for Ernesto Hoost’s unparalleled status as the best kickboxer in history.
Although he no longer competes, Hoost remains involved in the world of contact sports. He currently trains Tyrone Spong and lives in Hoorn with his wife and son.
7. Rico Verhoeven
![Rico Verhoeven's ICONIC comeback: Verhoeven vs. Ben Saddik 3 [FIGHT HIGHLIGHTS]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/bNSWPLCJtuI/0.jpg)
| Years Active | 17 years |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 59 wins, 11 losses, 1 draw |
Personally, I don’t know why people underestimate Rico Verhoeven so much. Rico Verhoeven weighs in at 113 kilos of muscle and is 1.80 meters tall. He has beaten Peter Aerts, Daniel Ghita, and Gokhan Saki in the ring and is one of the most technically polished fighters you will see in his division. He has an eleven-fight winning streak in Glory and is the best heavyweight kickboxer in the world. Without any doubt, he has to be in the top 10 of this ranking.
Although he was expected to compete in the 2012 K-1 World Grand Prix, Verhoeven was knocked out of the tournament. Rico further established himself by defeating kickboxing legend Peter Aerts (in the fourth position of this ranking) by a split decision in the hard-fought main event of Glory 13: Tokyo.
Not a bad story at all. As a combination fighter, he is much more cautious than most of his kickboxing counterparts. Part of that has to do with his massive frame, and it’s something we may never have seen before. At the age of 27 and with years to go in his career, we can learn more about each Verhoeven fight as it happens.
Rico Verhoeven’s outstanding achievements, technical brilliance, and positive influence on and off the ring have firmly established him as the best kickboxer of his generation. He embodies the true spirit of a champion, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of kickboxers to come.
8. Andy Hug
| Years Active | 16 |
| Birth Country | Switzerland |
| Professional Record | 290 wins, 14 losses, 2 draws |
Andreas Hug, known in martial arts history as Andy Hug or “the blue-eyed samurai,” was born on 7 September 1964 in the town of Wolhen in the canton of Aargau in the district of Bremgarten, Switzerland. This eighth position is because of his originality and sorry, but my passion and respect for people coming from this discipline.
It was in this style of karate that Andreas Hug began his sporting career in his home town at the age of 11. At 15, he was crowned world champion in the “Oyama Cup” tournament. Two years later, he took part in a new project in Bremgarten, where he was a founding member of a karate school.
This karate kid managed to gain the respect and admiration of much of the world due to his talent and ability to combine physical and spiritual skills in the management of his personal and sporting life, but one of his most important qualities was the total mastery of three styles of karate, including Kyokushinkai, characterized by its philosophy based on personal improvement through control of the mind and body, characterized by being a discipline with a high level of training and hardness, aiming at effectiveness in real combat.
He died at the age of 35 on 24 August 2000 in Tokyo, Japan, the country where he spent most of his sporting life. The cause of his death was leukemia, which prevented him from achieving any more victories in his short life. This tragic disease took his life less than seven days after he was diagnosed. Andy Hug is certainly one of the greatest kickboxers of all time. His professional record backs that statement up.
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9. Giorgio Petrosyan
| Years Active | From 2003 to present |
| Birth Country | Armenia |
| Professional Record | 100 wins, 2 losses, 2 draws |
This epic fighter was born in 1985 in Yerevan. It was the capital of the then-Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic. In 1999, before he was 14, he, his father, and his older brother set off on a 10-day journey hidden in the back of a lorry to Italy, where they hoped to start a new life. He first arrived in Milan, then traveled to Gorizia, and was finally reunited with his mother, sister, and younger brother Armen.
In 2003, Giorgio made his debut in the ring and since then, his success has been unstoppable. At first, he combined his sporting career with other jobs, such as haulage, to support himself, but his talent and dedication have seen him become one of the best martial artists in the world. In 2009, Giorgio had the opportunity to compete in the prestigious K-1 World MAX tournament, one of the most important mixed martial arts events in the world. He was victorious in his first appearance and repeated his triumph in subsequent editions. He is considered one of the best fighters in the history of the event.
Giorgio Petrosyan uses a multi-layered defense (also used in the IT world). As mentioned, he uses stiff arms to disrupt his opponent’s guard, overlaying this disruption with evasion. If he sees the punch coming, he will move out of the way. If he sees a kick coming, he will check it or lean back. He doesn’t do anything particularly crazy. As I said, he’s just very good at what he does. There is an idea in kickboxing that if you move your head, you will duck for a kick or a knee.
While this may be true for extremely low swings and punches, the basic and subtle head movements of sliding, leaning back, and leaving small waves are perfectly safe in kickboxing.
10. Jerome Le Banner
| Years Active | From 1992 to present |
| Birth Country | France |
| Professional Record | 80 wins, 20 losses, 2 draws |
Jerome Le Banner, the French fighting symbol. Born in the French city of Le Havre in Normandy (a beautiful place, by the way). He started judo at the age of 6, but at 14 he saw Bruce Lee’s “Fist of Fury,” which influenced him so much that he took up karate and incorporated some moves from Jeet Kune Do. Bruce Lee’s fighting style gives him the reverse defense that Jerome has used throughout his career, although his strongest hand is his right, which is a precedent. Le Banner is also a black belt in Kaikan Kyokushin Karate.
At 18, he made his debut in his first full-contact kickboxing competition. By the time he was 19, he had already won the French title, and shortly after Mike Bernardo of South Africa, he won the European kickboxing title by defeating Andy Mayo of France, as well as the intercontinental tournament. He fights, he wins, he’s on fire! He even has a showdown with a Russian kickboxing bear named Ruslan Karaev, who’s replaced by a Korean Taekwondo master at the last minute.
After a 27-year professional career, Jérôme Le Banner will finally retire in peace. The French kickboxing legend has announced that he will take part in the last fight of his career on 17 December. After a career spanning almost 30 years, the French kickboxer is preparing to take a breather. But before he hangs up his gloves, he will take part in the last fight of his career in Senegal.
11. Samart Payakaroon
| Years Active | 20 years |
| Birth Country | Thailand |
| Professional Record | 121 wins, 19 losses, 2 draws |
Great fighters come and go in this ranking, but one name that remains firmly in the sport’s legend list and stands out from the rest is the king of fighters and, for many, the best of the best, Samart Payakaroon (A.K.A. Baby Face Tiger). Even now, many fighters and pundits believe that “Baby Face Tiger” was the most talented fighter to grace the corners of a ring.
Like many fighters of his generation, Samart came up the hard way. Born in 1962 in the province of Chachoengsao in southern Thailand, Samart took up Muay Thai at the age of 10. Moving to Pattaya City in 1975, he fought under the tutelage of the great Yodtong Senanan at the Sityodthong Gym.
Not a gifted athlete, the young man impressed his teachers as a “feemue” (technical fighter) with good hand-eye coordination and preternatural reflexes that compensated for lack of natural physical ability.
Throughout his illustrious career, Samart faced a who’s who of Muay Thai and boxing champions. From the invincible Nongkhai Sor Prapasorn to the formidable Dieselnoi Chor Thanasukarn, Samart proved his mettle against the best in the world. His impressive record of wins speaks volumes about his dominance in both disciplines. Samart is considered the “Muhammad Ali” and “Sugar Ray Robinson” of this discipline. His name still holds prestige for followers of the sport.
12. Badr Hari
| Years Active | 20 years |
| Birth Country | Morocco |
| Professional Record | 106 wins, 15 losses, 1 draw |
Morocco’s Carlist motto, with which the country’s anthem ends, is always on the lips of Badr Hari, the Moroccan boxer who was born and raised in Holland and is now known around the world for his friendship with Cristiano Ronaldo. However, this is not the reason why he is in the 12th position in this ranking.
Badr Hari’s wild ride began with scrapes against Stefan Leko. He even got a Leko KO tattoo as a souvenir! At 20, he crashed the K-1 party, giving Leko a taste of his own medicine. Then, Peter Graham played jawbreaker with Hari’s jaw! Karaev hurt him, but Hari clung to the ring like a cat to a curtain. He became the heavyweight champ with a Fujimoto finisher. Hari danced a rematch tango with Karaev, ended up seeing stars from Schilt’s disco moves, and hilariously got into a kick-to-the-face showdown with Gerges. From broken bones to dramatic exits, Hari’s story is K-1 comedy gold!
His impressive palmarès are a testament to his dominance in the ring. Winning the K-1 Heavyweight World Championship in 2007 showcased his raw power as he delivered devastating knockouts to his opponents. Hari’s reign as the ‘It’s Showtime’ world champion, with four successful title defenses, further solidified his status as a dominant force in the sport.
Throughout his career, Hari has competed against some of the best fighters in the world, including Peter Aerts, Semmy Schilt, and Gokhan Saki. He has also competed in various mixed martial arts organizations such as K-1, Glory, and Lion Fight. In conclusion, Badr Hari is one of the most outstanding fighters in the history of mixed martial arts. His success is largely due to his dedication and perseverance in the sport.
13. Andy Souwer
| Years Active | 20 years |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 135 wins, 21 losses, 1 draw |
Meet Andy “The Destroyer” Souwer (born on the day the turkeys shivered, November 9, 1982). He’s a Dutch dynamo in kickboxing and K1 shenanigans. This “little” Dutch whirlwind at 7, ready to kick some air at Ling Ho Gym, 80 km away from the tulips and windmills hub. At the ripe age of 8, he dared to spar in his first mini-battle.
Fast forward, and he’s conquered more rings than a jewelry store, snagging two K1 World MAX crowns (2005 and 2007). He’s 177 cm of kick-blasting might and tips the scale at around 70 kg. Call him “The Destroyer” or “The Kickin’ Dutch Dynamo,” either way, he’s a champ!
Throughout his career, Souwer has amassed an impressive collection of titles and championships, both in kickboxing and Muay Thai. He has consistently dominated the competition, showcasing his lightning-fast reflexes, powerful strikes, and masterful footwork that set him apart from his peers.
He is a very technical fighter with a very serious and refined style in the ring. At the age of 26, he has already reached the top of kickboxing, being champion in the K1 MAX competition twice, the first time in 2005 at the age of 22, beating Thailand’s Buakaw Por Pramuk in the final, the second time in 2007, beating Japan’s Masato in the final.
His skill, adaptability, and tenacity make him an exceptional athlete and an inspiration to the next generation of fighters. As “The Samurai,” he will forever be remembered for his extraordinary contributions to the world of combat sports.
14. Alistair Overeem
| Years Active | 9 years |
| Birth Country | United Kingdom |
| Professional Record | 47 wins, 20 losses, 0 draws |
Alistair Cees Overeem (Hounslow, United Kingdom; May 17, 1980) is a British-Dutch mixed martial arts and kickboxing fighter who competed at heavyweight in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Prior to his layoff, he was a former Strikeforce, DREAM, and K-1 heavyweight champion and made history as the only fighter to hold the world title in both MMA and K-1 kickboxing at the same time. In 2004, Overeem reached the pinnacle of the kickboxing world when he claimed the prestigious K-1 Max World tournament title.
In a career that dates back to 1999, Overeem has won numerous accolades in MMA and kickboxing, competing for the UFC heavyweight title in 2016, winning championships with Strikeforce and K-1, and also competing for Japan’s legendary PRIDE promotion.
He retires with a 47-19 MMA record. At first, he found the training overly violent and aggressive, but after training with Bas Rutten, Joop Kasteel, and others, he eventually learned to enjoy it. However, he appeared on a TV show primarily to talk about nutrition and recent changes to his physique, but he made sure to mention that his fighting days were over.
15. Raymond Daniels
| Years Active | From 2006 to present |
| Birth Country | USA |
| Professional Record | 35 wins, 3 losses, 0 draws |
“The Real Deal” undoubtedly deserves the title of the best kickboxer in the world. Raymond Daniels believes that it’s never too late to do what you’ve always dreamed of doing. He has had an exciting career, from serving as a police officer (as Mirko Filipovićirco) to becoming the Bellator Kickboxing welterweight champion. The champion also has a record 35 wins from a total of 38 kickboxing victories.
What sets Raymond apart from his peers is not only his remarkable record but also his ability to excel in various martial arts disciplines. As a member of W.A.K.O. and a world champion, he has proven his mettle across different combat styles, showcasing his adaptability and versatility as a fighter.
Raymond Daniels embarked on his kickboxing voyage in 2006, leading the Los Angeles Stars in Chuck Norris’s World Combat League! In 2008, he comically triumphed over Michael Page at W.A.K.O. Switching gears; Strikeforce anointed him as the “next Cung Le” in MMA. Humorously defending his semi-contact 84 kg title against Michael Page at W.A.K.O in 2009. In 2010, Daniels kickstarted his junior karate sports venture with a comedic flair.
Nowadays, The Real Deal embraces the roles of both a father in California. He is an instructor at World Champion Karate alongside his partner Steven Horst. Notably, Daniels is a co-founder of “ICE Martial Arts,” a venture focused on personal training and nutrition.
16. Gokhan Saki
| Years Active | 21 years |
| Birth Country | Turkey |
| Professional Record | 82 wins, 26 losses, 0 draws |
In the 16th place, Gokhan Saki. He (born 18 October 1983) is a Dutch-Turkish mixed martial artist and former kickboxer. He is the Dutch and European Muay Thai Champion, K-1 World GP 2006 in Amsterdam, tournament finalist, K-1 World Grand Prix 2008 in Hawaii, and former Glory Light Heavyweight Champion. Saki has also competed in the light heavyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Saki’s initial appearance might prompt remarks about his size for a heavyweight. However, once the fight begins, words escape onlookers as he unleashes blistering speed and skill on opponents, affirming his status as a prized prospect.
With Turkish roots and a Dutch residence, Saki’s training under Cor Hemmers, renowned for producing champions, is evident. Early sparring partners like Semmy Schilt and Alistair Overeem honed his skills.
Transitioning from a sport where he excelled to a completely different discipline is a testament to his versatility and tenacity as an athlete. To sum up, Gokhan Saki’s journey as a kickboxer is a testament to his greatness in the sport. His dominance, fearlessness, adaptability, and global appeal all contribute to his title as one of the best kickboxers in history.
17. Branko Cikatic
| Years Active | 10 years |
| Birth Country | Croatia |
| Professional Record | 152 wins, 13 losses, 1 draw |
Branco Cikatic has made history as one of the longest-serving fighters in contact sports with more than twenty years in the ring; from the beginnings of full contact to the birth of Muay Thai in Europe and from the emergence of K-1 macro tournaments in 1993 to the explosion of MMA with PRIDE, Cikatic has been present as a competitor and champion in all these events.
In 1974, the birth of Full Contact or Full Contact Karate marked a new era. May 1976 marked Branco Cikatic’s debut in Full Contact. Soon after, his trajectory hit a pause as he fulfilled mandatory military service. In 1978, he joined Yugoslavia’s selection as a middleweight for WAKO’s inaugural amateur Full Contact world championships in Berlin. In 1979, he secured his first European amateur championship in Milan. His success repeated in 1980 and as a professional in Miami, where he claimed a world title.
Cikatic’s prominence included victories against Italian champion Galessi and Swiss champion Jean Marc Tonus. In 1982, he clinched the professional European Full Contact title in Berlin. Seeking further challenges, he ventured into Kickboxing and Muay Thai in Amsterdam, training at the renowned Chakuriki Dojo under Tom Harrink.
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18. Alexey Ignashov
| Years Active | 23 years |
| Birth Country | Belarus |
| Professional Record | 68 wins, 21 losses, 1 draw |
In the eighteenth position, we have Alexey Ignashov. Born on 18 January 1978, he is 1.96m tall and weighs 117kg Belarusian kickboxer. Alexey Ignashov is a formidable fighter for all boxers on the circuit. Despite an air that can sometimes appear indifferent, the Belarusian can punch with surprising speed.
The Belarusian is known as “The Red Scorpion” for his precise, fast, and poisonous punches. Alexey, who five years ago was what Hari is now, after the victories and the glory, found fame and money the wrong way, reaching excesses and the adoption of alcohol as a way of life.
A life that has shortened his professional career, a life that Ignashov is still reluctant to talk about. With a professional record boasting 68 wins out of 81 fights, Alexey Ignashov’s level of success is unrivaled.
In 2000, he became the WPKL Muay Thai European Champion. His journey also witnessed setbacks, such as a broken finger that compelled his withdrawal from the SuperKombat World Grand Prix 2012 Final Elimination quarter-finals against Benjamin Adegbuyi in Craiova, Romania, scheduled for November 10, 2012. Ignashov’s career has encompassed triumphs, titles, losses, fan discontent, and criticism, highlighting his humanity.
19. Mike Zambidis
| Years Active | 19 years |
| Birth Country | Greece |
| Professional Record | 156 wins, 27 losses, 0 draws |
Ranked at 19th place is the formidable “Iron Mike,” Mike Zambidis, a 15-time world champion, and the reigning SuperKombat middleweight champion. He’s not just a one-arena wonder; he also thrives in K-1 MAX. Mike’s martial arts journey started at a tender age, under the guidance of his brother Spiros Zambidis and close friend Lazaros Filipas. His training arsenal is diverse and includes Shotokan, Kickboxing, Boxing, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Pankration.
In 2000, he made his professional debut, quickly earning a reputation for leaving opponents more wobbly than newborn giraffes on roller skates. His victories were often punctuated by knockouts, with only two technical knockout losses early in his career. After 2002, his next technical decision defeat came in 2008 against Andy Souwer in an extra-round showdown.
Zambidis’s highlight reel includes a Dutch-Moroccan knockout served to Hassan Kassrioui in 2002, clinching the K-1 Oceania MAX 2002 title by toppling John Wayne Parr. A trip to Japan saw him dishing out a knockout to K-1 Max champ Albert Kraus, as potent as their renowned green tea.
With a career spanning 178 fights, including 155 wins and 87 KOs, Zambidis’s journey has been a 20-year whirlwind of competition, marked by victories in the face of the world’s best fighters.
20. Nieky Holzken
| Years Active | From 2001 to present |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 94 wins, 17 losses, 0 draws |
Nieky Holzen, of course, has to be in this ranking (even though he is in this position). He was raised by his grandparents after his parents separated a few years after his birth. In his youth, he was passionate about martial arts. Then he started boxing and then kickboxing. During this time, he had the opportunity to train with the likes of Ramon Dekkers and Cor Hemmers.
Holzken made his K-1 debut on 26 November 2006, competing in the Northern European K-1 World MAX qualifier in Stockholm, Sweden. Here he showed his athletic talent early on, defeating Björn Kjöllerström, Joakim Karlsson, and Elias Daniel by way of knockout. This victory put him through to the final elimination of the K-1 World MAX 2007, where he will face defending Thai champion Buakaw, who defeated the Dutchman by unanimous decision.
In his quest for glory, Holzken gave Direkçi and Ghajji a “cutting” lesson in October 2012 and April 2013. They had to throw in the towel faster than a squirrel in a nut race. Ready to slam at SLAMM!! IV, he suddenly pulled a Houdini due to reasons as mysterious as a disappearing cake at a birthday party. Glorious victory at Glory 13 crowned him the welterweight champion, proving he packs a punch stronger than a kangaroo’s jump.
But hold on; life served him a fender-bender that canceled his plans faster than a sneeze in a sandstorm. Smith challenge didn’t ring the victory bell; instead, he heard the unanimous decision chime. Yet, he gave John Wayne Parr a Muay Thai lesson with a knockout sweeter than candy. Holzken’s contract expiry made him a free agent, but in the end, he returned to ONE like a boomerang, ready to fight another day.
21. Sittichai Sitsongpeenong
| Years Active | From 2002 to present |
| Birth Country | Thailand |
| Professional Record | 129 wins, 33 losses, 5 draws |
Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong, originally known as Anulak Jansuk. Born on September 23, 1991, in Buriram, a province in Thailand’s northeastern Isan region, he started his fighting journey at the tender age of 2, making his debut fight. In 2010, he ventured beyond Thailand, competing in a 4-man tournament at “Nuit des Titans” in France.
In 2011, he competed in the “Fuktien Group 8-Man Tournament,” reaching the final but suffering an unfortunate defeat due to a clavicle injury. However, he bounced back, winning the “La Nuit des Champions” tournament in Marseille, France, against Abdellah Ezbiri by technical knockout.
He transitioned to kickboxing, making his Glory debut in 2015 at “Glory 22,” where he claimed the “Tournament Contender” title by defeating Davit Kiria and Josh Jauncey. He went on to face Robin van Roosmalen in a controversial match at “Glory 25.”
Sitthichai’s journey continued in 2016 with victories in “Kunlun Fight 64-Man 70kg World Max Tournament,” further solidifying his reputation. His career took an even more international turn in 2017, defending his lightweight title in Glory 39 against Dylan Salvador and conquering the “Tournament Challenge Yi Long” in China.
22. Kaoklai Kaennorsing
| Years Active | 11 years |
| Birth Country | Thailand |
| Professional Record | 88 wins, 21 losses, 3 draws |
Meet Kaoklai Kaennorsing in position 22, the kickboxing beast. Born on September 13, 1983, ready to throw punches and kick his way into your heart. He is not only a kickboxing master but also a Muay Thai maestro; Kaennorsing isn’t just your regular fighter. He’s got titles and triumphs under his belt that make other champs green with envy.
Kaoklai once snatched the K-1 World Grand Prix 2004 in Seoul title like it was the last piece of pizza at a party. He’s a former two-division Rajadamnern Stadium champion, proving he’s got more belts than a karate sensei has in their closet.
But here’s the punchline. At his K-1 debut, he weighed in at 78 kg, making him the “lightest and youngest” fighter ever to slam-dunk his way to a K-1 open-weight tournament win. That’s right, and he’s got moves like a featherweight ballerina with a knockout punch. This is one of the main reasons that explains his position in this ranking.
Oh, and don’t be fooled by his fierce name, “Kaoklai” translates to “to have a good future” in Thai. No wonder he’s got a killer smile even while delivering knockout blows.
23. Remy Bonjasky
| Years Active | 22 years |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 78 wins, 19 losses, 0 draws |
Bonjasky was born in Surinam but moved to the Netherlands when he was five. He played football during his childhood, but a broken leg forced him to stop playing. At the age of 18, a friend took him to the Mejiro Gym, a Muay Thai gym, and from then on, he decided to train in the sport.
Bonjasky won by technical knockout, and from that moment on, he quit his job as an operator to dedicate himself full-time to his training. On December 6, 2003, Remy stepped into the prestigious K-1 World Grand Prix featuring Japan’s top eight fighters of the year, riding high as a favorite after his triumph at the K-1 World GP 2003 in Las Vegas II four months earlier. He faced Ernesto Hoost in the quarters, ex-boxer Francois Botha, and once again, local contender Musashi, though this time with tougher competition, securing victory via a fifth-round decision.
November 19, 2005, saw Tokyo host the K-1 World Grand Prix again, with Remy gunning for his third consecutive title. But he was bested by fellow Dutchman Semmy Schilt. Amid personal issues in 2006, divorce, and coaching changes, Remy made a K-1 World Grand Prix comeback.
On September 29, 2007, he faced off against Stefan Leko again. The bout was a K-1 World GP entry ticket, and Remy won amid a controversial decision halt. He triumphed over Badr Hari in the quarters but fell to fellow Dutchman Peter Aerts in the semis, missing a shot at the final against ultimate victor Semmy Schilt.
24. Rob Kaman
![Rob Kaman "Mr. Low Kick" Knockouts & Highlights [Muaythai/Kickboxing]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/_4mdVzmcDsc/0.jpg)
| Years Active | 21 years |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 97 wins, 26 losses, 4 draws |
At the tender age of 16, he kicked soccer goodbye and did a ninja swerve into Pentjak Silat, which is like the Indonesian version of karate but with extra flair. He initially teamed up with Lucien Carbin, who probably showed him how to throw a punch without spilling his orange juice.
Then he switched to Mejiro Gym, where he hung out with the legendary Jan Plas, who’s now probably orchestrating the coolest punch-up in the afterlife, and later high-fived Andre Mannaart.
On October 24, 1999, Kaman decided to hang up his gloves with his final bout against the 21-year-old kickboxing prodigy Alexey Ignashov. This young champion left us wanting more. Rob Kaman clinched victory by points, exiting the ring to thunderous applause from the crowd, acknowledging the illustrious career of the great champion.
In conclusion, Rob Kaman’s unparalleled achievements, his impressive knockout record, and his ability to conquer opponents from various corners of the world unequivocally justify his title as the best kickboxer in history.
25. Tyrone Spong
| Years Active | 13 years |
| Birth Country | Netherlands |
| Professional Record | 107 wins, 26 losses, 4 draws |
Last but not least: Tyrone Spong from Suriname. He stumbled upon a boxing club at 13, accidentally triggering his kickboxing journey. After getting “his ass kicked,” as he puts it, he was motivated to improve. His debut fight came at 15, winning by first-round knockout. Early training partners included Alistair and Valentijn Overeem, and Gilbert Yvel.
In 2003, at the start of his professional journey, Spong engaged in 12 fights. In 2004, during the Battle of Zaandam, he secured the European muay-thai title from WKN by defeating Rafi Zouheir. He also tried shoot-boxing in Japan but lost to Ryuji Goto.
In April 2005, he clinched a second European title, this time from WPKL, against Mohammed Ouali. He triumphed in a Duisburg tournament in 2005, winning all three fights by KO.
Spong’s 2006 victories included knockout wins over Joerie Mes and Kaoklai Kaennorsing. He clinched the SLAMM title in 2007 and earned the WFCA Heavyweight Muay Thai Championship in 2008. In 2009, he joined the K-1 tournament, facing ups and downs. Notably, Spong’s debut MMA fight in 2012 ended with a KO win. Spong ventured into boxing in 2015 and has since remained undefeated, notching up 14 victories, 13 by KO.
Summary:
This list is not only based on the W/L ratio but other aspects like veteran interviews, sport-wide consensus, and fighter status. The list can change as new fighters enter the ring and make history.
Let us know if you agree with our rankings in the comments section below.