Ellis Badr Barboza is on the verge of completing an extraordinary transformation from a homeless child to a world champion.
His ambition is set to materialize against his long-admired icon, Prajanchai PK Saenchai, in a battle for the ONE Strawweight Muay Thai world championship.
Growing up in Birmingham, Barboza`s life took a difficult turn at the age of six when he and his mother became homeless.
His childhood was marked by instability, moving between shelters, hostels, and temporary accommodations, often relying on sofas or floor mattresses for sleep.
“Reflecting on my past, I realize how far I`ve come from that young, troubled boy in Birmingham. I was lost amidst many challenges,” Barboza recounts.
“It`s been a long and winding road, filled with both triumphs and setbacks, in life and in sports. Through perseverance, I`ve endured. Now, I`m on the cusp of proving that it has all been worthwhile.”
“At just 24, I`ve gained significant maturity and distance from those early hardships. Nothing in this world can easily unsettle me now.”
“My life has undergone a profound change, and achieving this belt will amplify that change even further,” he added.
“This fight is about everything. It transcends just the belt; it`s about family, my mother, my sister – everything that comes with being a champion, a life-altering achievement.”
“It unlocks doors to financial opportunities, business ventures, and overall success. This fight means more than words can express.”
His opportunity for a world championship arrives in a fight against Prajanchai, a celebrated two-division world champion in kickboxing and Muay Thai.
“I am a great admirer of Prajanchai. He is a legend. It is a great honor to have the chance to fight him. Winning the belt is one achievement, but defeating an icon like him is on another level. I used to watch him while training, dreaming of one day competing in this promotion against fighters of his caliber,” Barboza shared.
“Especially early in my training, he was always the champion in my weight class. I learned a lot from observing him as a young aspiring fighter. Now, I have the opportunity to face him.”
However, he confidently stated, “Prajanchai has had his reign. It`s time for the new generation to take over.”
He is confident in his ability to cause an upset in Lumpinee Stadium in Thailand.
“I thrive in situations where I`m underestimated. It empowers me to make a statement,” he stated.
“I love proving people wrong and silencing doubters. That`s my driving force. Underestimate me at your peril.”
