Songchainoi Reveals New Game Plan for Banluelok Fight at The Inner Circle 27

Songchainoi Kiatsongrit is determined to return to winning ways when he faces Banluelok Sitwatcharachai in the main event of The Inner Circle 27 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on August 21, 2026.

The Thai atomweight Muay Thai contender enters the bout following consecutive defeats against Numsurin Chor Ketwina and Nadaka. Those setbacks exposed areas of his game that needed improvement, prompting the 25-year-old to make important adjustments during his latest training camp.

Songchainoi has specifically prepared for Banluelok’s speed and dangerous left kick. Rather than simply relying on his established strengths, the Kiatsongrit Muay Thai Gym product has worked on adding new elements to his overall approach.

Songchainoi Focused on Defending Banluelok’s Left Kick

One of the biggest priorities for Songchainoi heading into the matchup has been finding an effective answer to Banluelok’s left kick.

The Thai contender explained that he has spent considerable time improving his defensive reactions on the left side. His plan is to block the kick and immediately respond with a counter before Banluelok can capitalize.

“I’ve trained to actively raise my block on the left side. I need to block that left kick and counter quickly, because if I’m slow [when we are inside the pocket], he’s going to land it,” Songchainoi said in his pre-event interview with ONE Championship.

The strategy highlights the importance of timing in the upcoming contest. Banluelok’s speed could create problems if Songchainoi allows him to dictate exchanges, particularly at close range.

Boxing Remains a Major Part of Songchainoi’s Arsenal

While defensive improvements have been central to his preparations, Songchainoi has not moved away from the weapons that have made him a dangerous competitor.

The 25-year-old revealed that he devoted significant time to refining his boxing during camp. He considers his hands to be his primary weapon and has worked on sharpening those skills while incorporating additional techniques into his game.

“I also worked a lot on my boxing throughout this camp because my hands are my main weapon. I went back to refining my core strengths while adding new tools,” he explained.

This approach could make the matchup particularly intriguing. Songchainoi is attempting to combine his established offensive strengths with improved defensive awareness, giving him more options depending on how Banluelok approaches the fight.

Two Consecutive Losses Have Changed Songchainoi’s Approach

Songchainoi’s recent results have made his return at The Inner Circle 27 especially important. Consecutive losses to Numsurin Chor Ketwina and Nadaka have temporarily slowed his progress toward another world title opportunity.

Rather than rushing straight back into championship contention, Songchainoi appears focused on rebuilding his momentum one victory at a time.

The losses have also provided valuable information about the areas he needs to improve. His latest training camp has therefore been about more than simply preparing for one opponent; it has been an opportunity to become a more complete fighter.

Songchainoi Is Not Rushing Back Toward the World Title

Despite remaining interested in the atomweight Muay Thai championship, Songchainoi does not want to receive another title opportunity without earning it.

The fighter believes a strong winning streak would remove any doubts about whether he deserves another shot at the championship.

“I want to do it right. I want to win two, three, four, or five fights in a row first, so nobody can question it when I get that title shot again,” Songchainoi told ONE Championship.

That mindset could make his fight against Banluelok even more significant. A victory would not immediately guarantee another title shot, but it would give Songchainoi an important first step toward rebuilding his standing in the division.

Banluelok Presents a Difficult Test

Banluelok’s speed and left kick give him a clear pathway to challenge Songchainoi’s newly developed defensive approach. If Songchainoi can consistently block the kick and counter effectively, he could force his opponent to change tactics.

At the same time, Songchainoi’s improved boxing could become a decisive factor if he manages to establish his preferred range. His emphasis on using his hands suggests that he will look for opportunities to turn defensive moments into offensive exchanges.

The fight therefore represents a test of whether Songchainoi’s adjustments can translate from training into competition. His ability to execute under pressure will be crucial, particularly against an opponent capable of exploiting hesitation.

The Inner Circle 27 Could Begin Songchainoi’s Rebuild

Songchainoi enters The Inner Circle 27 with a clear objective: return to winning form and begin rebuilding his path toward the world title.

His decision to strengthen his defense while preserving his boxing-based offense shows a measured approach following his recent setbacks. Instead of abandoning the style that has made him successful, he has attempted to expand it with new tools.

Whether those changes are enough to overcome Banluelok will be determined inside Lumpinee Stadium. For Songchainoi, however, the bout represents more than another fight. It is the first major opportunity to demonstrate that the lessons from his recent defeats have helped transform him into a more complete fighter.

What Comes Next for Songchainoi?

A victory over Banluelok would provide Songchainoi with much-needed momentum, but the fighter has already made his long-term intentions clear. He wants to build a sustained winning streak before asking for another world championship opportunity.

If he can successfully execute his improved defensive strategy, showcase his boxing and add another victory to his record, the former title contender could begin his climb back toward the top of the atomweight Muay Thai division.

For now, all attention will be on whether Songchainoi’s refined game plan can withstand Banluelok’s speed and powerful left kick at The Inner Circle 27.