Muay Thai Muay Thai boxing will be featured as a thrilling side event at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris from July 26 to August 11. According to International Muay Thai Federation (IFMA) President Sakchet Tapsuwan, the landmark event is expected to see the participation of more than 1,000 Muay Thai boxers from 24 countries across five continents.
“This is a groundbreaking step towards our dream of Muay Thai becoming an official Olympic sport.”
The five-day Muay Thai festival promises to be a spectacular event with exhibitions and workshops showcasing Thailand's ancient martial art. The main highlight is scheduled for August 5th and 6th, with exciting bouts between international fighters. A special boxing ring will be set up at Club France, providing the perfect venue for the bouts.
Add some excitement to the proceedings with world-renowned Muay Thai champion Buakaw Banchamek performing the traditional Wai Kru ceremony, a ceremonial dance performed by fighters before a bout to show respect for their master and set the stage for the fight.
Meanwhile, IFMA Secretary General Stephen Fox highlighted the federation's growing global recognition.
“Our Federation currently has 152 associations across five continents.”
Dr Sakche, who is also president of the Thai Amateur Muay Thai Association, revealed that Thailand is preparing to send athletes in 13 weight classes to the IFMA Senior World Championships 2024, which will be held in Greece from May 31 to June 9. These weight classes include seven categories for male boxers and six categories for female fighters, underscoring Thailand's determination to promote and develop Muay Thai on the world stage, Thai PBS World reported.
Paris 2024 will be a historic event for Muay Thai enthusiasts around the world, putting the intensity and artistry of the martial art at the center of the Olympic spotlight.
In related news, Thailand will be holding its first-ever mixed martial arts event exclusively for police officers on May 28 at Rajadamnern Stadium. The event, aptly named “Cops Combat,” will see police officers from all over the country compete in a martial arts tournament.
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