Emerson Bento Ready to Take on Historic Challenge at RWS 200
Former Rajadamnern Stadium champion faces dangerous Russian striker in a special 170-pound catchweight bout.
On June 27, Brazilian fighter Emerson Bento will once again step into the ring at Rajadamnern Stadium. A former champion of the iconic venue, the athlete from southern Brazil will be one of the featured attractions at the historic 200th edition of Rajadamnern World Series (RWS) in Bangkok, Thailand.
This will mark Bento’s first appearance at Rajadamnern since December of last year, when he engaged in an intense battle against talented Thai star Thananchai Sitsongpeenong.
Now, Emerson returns to the same stage seeking international reaffirmation and aiming to deliver another memorable performance on Thai soil.
The challenge, however, will be among the toughest of his career.
As part of the celebration of RWS 200, Bento accepted the challenge of moving up 10 pounds from his usual weight class to face Russian powerhouse Dmitry Menshikov in a special 170-pound catchweight super fight. A former Rajadamnern champion at 160 pounds, the Brazilian now faces an opponent known for his imposing physique and knockout power.
Despite the physical challenge, Emerson remains confident and says his preparation has been built around a smart and strategic game plan.
“Our preparation has been very smart. We’re fully focused on the fight strategy, and our training camp has been built around that. Nobody wants to lose, but because this is a special event celebrating a historic milestone, we want a war. Victory is the only thing that matters.”
The move to a heavier weight class has required significant adjustments. This time, the challenge is not cutting weight, but gaining size to compete against a naturally bigger opponent.
“I’m eating a lot—really a lot. I need to gain weight. I accepted this fight because I want to prove to myself that I can do it and show the critics that I’m not afraid of big muscles or someone who looks intimidating.”
Known for his aggressive style, technical skills, and relentless pressure inside the ring, Bento believes that the essence of Muay Thai goes beyond physical differences and size.
The 200th edition of RWS will mark another important chapter in the organization’s history as it continues to strengthen and promote Muay Thai to an ever-growing global audience.
For Emerson Bento, the night of June 27 represents more than just another fight. It is an opportunity to prove, once again, why his name remains among the most respected Brazilian fighters in international Muay Thai.
RWS is currently broadcast live in English on YouTube, with the event scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. Brasília time.
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