Melbourne: The "Muay Thai Master Class 2025" project has successfully concluded in Australia, showcasing the rising global interest in Muay Thai and generating significant economic value for Thailand. The event, featuring renowned boxers such as Saenchai P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym, Petchmankong Petchfergus, and Namsaknoi Yuttakarnkamthorn, has been instrumental in promoting Muay Thai internationally.
According to Thai News Agency, the Muay Thai Masterclass took place from October 24-26 in Melbourne, marking the final stop in a series of events held across 10 countries this year. The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and the Boxing Commission organized the event, aiming to promote and disseminate Muay Thai worldwide.
The opening ceremony was held at the Melbourne Pavilion with key figures such as Mr. Chalitrat Chantrubeksa, Deputy Secretary-General of the Olympic Committee of Thailand, and Mr. Nattaphon Antrasen, Director of the Boxing Committee of the SAT, in attendance. The event attracted a large number of Australians eager to learn about Muay Thai.
During the event, Muay Thai champions performed the Wai Khru Muay Thai ceremony and taught participants various techniques, including the use of fists, feet, knees, and elbows. Additionally, Muay Boran techniques were demonstrated by fighters Sgt. Maj. Supachai Phansuwan and Sgt. Thinan Sriprang.
The SAT also certified 11 Muaythai gyms in Australia with the Standard Muaythai Gym (SMG) certification, recognizing their adherence to standards set by the SAT. These gyms include The Ring Gym Muay Thai, Morakot Muay Thai Gym, and Australian Combat Sport Academy, among others.
Mr. Nattapol Antarasen expressed satisfaction with the event's success, noting that it exceeded expectations with 474 registrations. The economic impact of the event in Australia was over 317 million baht, contributing to the total economic value of over 3.2 billion baht from the 10-country tour.
The initiative not only promoted Muay Thai but also facilitated job creation and international opportunities for Muay Thai instructors. It has attracted international students to Thai Muay Thai gyms through the NOW Muay Thai application, thereby boosting the Thai economy.
Saenchai P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym shared his enthusiasm for the growing interest in Muay Thai, noting the joy of seeing foreigners engaged in learning the sport. He emphasized the global recognition of Muay Thai and urged continued support from relevant agencies to promote it further.