[1] Ponn Ommklin started Muay Thai at the age of 14 in his native province of Khon Kaen, following the steps of his older brother.

His parents wouldn't let him pursue Muay Thai full time before graduating high school which he did in 1969.

At the age of 18 he went to Bangkok on the advice of a fighter from the Worawut camp, at this occasion Pudpadnoi used his famous ring name for the first time as he won his debut in Rajadamnern Stadium by high kick knockout.

[2] During his first two years of competition in Bangkok Pudpadnoi won 17 of 19 fights, he was a very versatile southpaw with powerful kicks earning him the nickname "The Golden Leg".

He holds victories over some of the most notable fighters of his era such as Fahsai Taweechai, Bundit Singprakarn, Vicharnnoi Porntawee, Huasai Sitiboonlert, Narongnoi Kiatbandit, Neth Saknarong, Wichit Lukbangplasoi, Sirimongkol Luksiripat and Apidej Sit-Hirun.