Ramon Dekkers was a Dutch kickboxer and an eight-time Muay Thai world champion. He was widely regarded as one of the most influential and dominant strikers in the history of combat sports. He was also the first non-Thai to be named Thai Boxer of the Year. He died of a heart attack on February 27, 2013, while riding a bicycle in his hometown of Breda, Netherlands. He was only 43 years old.
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The Life and Career of Ramon Dekkers
Ramon Dekkers was born on September 4, 1969, in Breda, Netherlands. He began learning martial arts at age 12, starting with judo and then switching to boxing. At age 16, he started practicing Muay Thai under Cor Hemmers, who later became his stepfather. He won his first title at age 18, when he became the MTBN Dutch champion. He then went on to win several European and world titles in various weight divisions.
Dekkers was known for his fast-paced, aggressive, and powerful fighting style. He was also renowned for his willingness to go abroad and fight the Thai champions in their own country. He fought some of the best Muay Thai fighters of his era, such as Coban Lookchaomaesaitong, Nampon Nongkee Pahuyuth, Orono Por Muang Ubon, and Cherry Sor Wanich. He had a fierce rivalry with Coban, whom he faced four times, winning twice and losing twice.
Dekkers had a record of 186 wins, 33 losses, and 2 draws, with 95 knockouts. He retired in 2006, after a farewell fight against Joerie Mes, whom he defeated by unanimous decision. He remained involved in combat sports as a coach and trainer, mentoring young fighters such as Robin van Roosmalen and Gago Drago.
The Death of Ramon Dekkers
On February 27, 2013, Dekkers was riding a bicycle in a tunnel in Breda, when he suddenly collapsed. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but he could not be resuscitated. He was pronounced dead of a heart attack. He was 43 years old.
The news of his death shocked and saddened the Muay Thai and MMA community, as well as his fans and admirers. Many fighters and celebrities paid tribute to him on social media, expressing their respect and admiration for his skills and achievements. Some of the notable names who honored him were Alistair Overeem, Marloes Coenen, Dan Hardy, Mark Hominick, Carlos Condit, Stefan Struve, Mike Swick, Kenny Florian, and Joe Rogan.
Dekkers was buried on March 7, 2013, in Breda. His funeral was attended by hundreds of people, including his family, friends, fans, and fellow fighters. A documentary about his life and career, titled The Diamond, was released in 2014.
The Legacy of Ramon Dekkers
Ramon Dekkers is widely considered as one of the greatest and most influential Muay Thai fighters of all time. He is credited with popularizing Muay Thai in the West, and inspiring many fighters to pursue the sport. He is also regarded as a pioneer and a legend in the kickboxing and MMA world, as he was one of the first to successfully cross over and compete in different disciplines and rulesets.
Dekkers was a true warrior, who never backed down from a challenge, and always gave his best in the ring. He was admired for his courage, determination, and passion. He was also a humble and respectful person, who treated his opponents and fans with dignity and kindness.
Ramon Dekkers will always be remembered as a Muay Thai legend, who left a lasting impact on the sport and the culture. He will always be missed, but never forgotten. Rest in peace, The Diamond.