Kongtoranee Payakaroon

Real Name: Chartchai Tiptamai
Born: July 12, 1960
Hometown: Bang Pakong, Chachoengsao, Thailand
Height: 170 cm
Stance: Orthodox
Style: Muay Femur
Gym: Sityodtong
Trainer: Yodtong Senanan
Era: Golden Era · late 1970s–mid-1980s

Kongtoranee Payakaroon was one of the accomplished technical fighters of Thailand's Golden Era and a member of the Payakaroon fighting family. While his younger brother Samart Payakaroon became one of the most recognisable fighters of the period, Kongtoranee established his own career at the highest level through consistency, composure and adaptability.

Born in Chachoengsao, Kongtoranee began training at around 11 years old under Yodtong Senanan at Sityodtong Gym. He developed into a traditional Muay Femur, relying on timing, positioning and an ability to adjust during a fight rather than simply applying forward pressure.

He was particularly effective at reading opponents and changing his approach as a fight developed. His defensive structure, counter-kicking and ability to control the pace over five rounds allowed him to remain competitive against a wide range of styles.

Kongtoranee's strongest period came during the late 1970s and early 1980s, when he established himself as one of Lumpinee Stadium's leading fighters. He won titles across five weight divisions, from pinweight through to bantamweight, holding championships at 102, 108, 112, 115 and 118 lbs.

His ability to move successfully between divisions was one of the defining features of his career. He faced leading fighters including Samransak Muangsurin, Wangchannoi Sor.Palangchai, Chamuakpetch Hapalang, Bangkhlanoi Sor.Thanikul and Petchdam Lukborai.

Kongtoranee was also recognised with major awards during his career, including the Sports Writers Association of Thailand Fighter of the Year in 1984 and recognition as King's Fighter of the Year in 1978.

His documented Muay Thai record is incomplete by modern standards and is generally listed at approximately 165 wins, 45 losses and 200 or more fights, with multiple draws. The figures include stadium and international competition but should be treated as approximate.

In 1985, Kongtoranee moved into professional boxing. He finished with a record of 12 wins, 2 losses and 9 knockouts, and faced some of the strongest super flyweights of his time.

He defeated former WBC champion Payao Poontarat and later challenged for both the WBC and WBA super flyweight titles. He lost decisions to Gilberto Román and Khaosai Galaxy, although his fight with Galaxy remains a notable contest in Thai boxing history. Kongtoranee was able to knock Galaxy down during the bout, and the result has continued to be discussed by Thai boxing fans.

After retiring from competition in 1990, Kongtoranee continued working in Muay Thai. He spent time training fighters in Japan before returning to Thailand and becoming involved again with Sityodtong Gym.

Kongtoranee's career stands out for the combination of technical ability and longevity required to win Lumpinee championships across five weight divisions. His move into professional boxing also demonstrated that his skills could translate to a different ruleset at the highest level.

While he will always be connected to the Payakaroon name, Kongtoranee's own career stands on its results: multiple Lumpinee championships, elite opposition during the Golden Era and successful competition across a wide range of weights.