Cadden proves a Thai knockout (From York Press)

Cadden proves a Thai knockout

10:05am Thursday 18th December 2008 in Sport By Steve Carroll, Sports reporter

RICHARD Cadden was a knockout on a two-fight stop in Thailand.

The York thai-boxing world champion defended his World Professional Muaythai Federation crown while restoring his fighting confidence in the process.

Cadden, 31, saw off South African Joe Sor Khamsi at the Lumphini Stadium, in Bangkok, before travelling to Phuket and keeping his title by beating Towalitnoi Torphar – both fighters hitting the canvas, never to return, in the third round.

For the Acomb warrior, whose last fight for the world ISKA title ended in the summer at Leeds Town Hall when a gash split his head open and exposed his skull, it was a welcome return to form.

And, after questioning his confidence, the double victory has left him re-energised and looking to climb new peaks in the stylish, but dangerous, sport.

“I fought against Sor Khamsi at a heavier weight – 69kg – which is a lot heavier than I normally fight,” Cadden said. “I took the fight, which was on a Friday, at 24-hours notice but, after the first kick exchange, I think he was scared by the power of my kicks.

“He came out stronger in the second round but, at the break, my gym manager came into the corner and said ‘you’re defending your world title on Monday, finish him off this round’.

“I ended up stopping him with body shots and some low kicks.”

Cadden was always on top in his title defence at 67kg, despite taking on an awkward opponent. “He was a tricky southpaw,” the Bad Company gym-based fighter added.

“I tried to get onto the inside and push him back while using my fitness and determination. I put him down in the second round for an eight count and finished him in the third with a straight right hand.”

He said: “After the nasty cut in my last fight in the UK in June, I did have a few reservations and concerns about fighting under the elbow rule (which allows fighters to use their elbows to inflict damage).

“But I came through totally unscathed and I don’t think I am at the end by any means. A lot of people thought my career was coming to a close after that June fight and these wins give me new passion.

“I’ve still got the fire and I think I’ve still got years to come.”

Cadden said he is hopeful his next fight will take place in Holland in March.