Former three-sport ONE World Champion Stamp Fairtex opened up about her highly anticipated return to competition following a 26-month absence due to a torn meniscus at ONE 173 in November 2025.
Thai superstar Stamp Fairtex discussed the mental and physical challenges of competing against Japan’s Kana Morimoto in a kickboxing clash that ended in unanimous decision defeat, her first action since September 2023.
Stamp Fairtex revealed feeling nervous and rusty during the bout while expressing satisfaction that her surgically repaired knee held up throughout the contest. Despite the loss, the Thai veteran expressed pride in returning to the ring while achieving personal goals beyond competition.
Thai Superstar Stamp Fairtex Admits Nerves and Rust in Long-Awaited Return
Speaking candidly about her November performance against Morimoto, Stamp Fairtex described the disconnect between mental preparation and physical execution following her extended absence from competition. The former three-sport champ acknowledged that nerves and ring rust affected her ability to implement her game plan effectively.
“I felt very nervous and excited. I think I was a bit rusty because I hadn’t fought in such a long time. My mind knew what strikes to throw, but my body wouldn’t follow … probably due to fatigue as well,” Stamp explained.
The honest assessment reveals the harsh reality facing fighters attempting to return from lengthy injury layoffs. Despite her extensive training preparation, the 26-month absence created challenges that only actual competition could expose and address.
Stamp Fairtex Takes Pride in Injury-Free Comeback Despite Defeat
Looking beyond the disappointing result, Stamp Fairtex highlighted positive takeaways from her return while expressing relief that her knee withstood the rigors of competition. The Thai athlete framed the bout as a necessary warm-up rather than a definitive statement about her current abilities.
“Even though I didn’t win, I’m not disappointed. It was just a warm-up fight, and I’m satisfied with my physical condition to a certain extent. Most importantly, my knee didn’t hurt. Overall, I did a good job for a comeback. I’m proud of myself for getting back into the ring,” Stamp said.
Stamp Fairtex’s satisfaction with her physical condition suggests confidence that additional competition will restore the timing and conditioning necessary for future performances.
Three-Sport Queen Celebrates Personal Milestones
Reflecting on her year beyond competitive results, Stamp expressed gratitude for accomplishing personal objectives that extended past simply returning to competition. The former MMA, Muay Thai, and Kickboxing World Champion revealed how the recovery period provided opportunities to focus on family and life planning.
“Overall, it was a great year. I’m back in the ring where I belong and have achieved all the goals I set for myself – returning to competition, taking my family on an overseas trip, and planning for this year,” Stamp Fairtex said.
The perspective shows maturity in recognizing that martial arts excellence represents only one component of a fulfilling life. Her ability to celebrate personal accomplishments alongside competitive goals suggests a healthy balance rarely seen among athletes.
