Historic Event Marks Major Step in Promoting Muaythai Through Military Sports Diplomacy
Bangkok, July 10, 2025 — The 1st CISM Military Muaythai Challenge officially opened today at Paragon Hall, located at the iconic Siam Paragon in the heart of Bangkok. This landmark event marks a major advancement in promoting Muaythai as a global sport and cherished element of Thailand’s cultural heritage—while also highlighting the growing role of military sports diplomacy on the world stage.
The prestigious opening ceremony was presided over by Dr. Sutin Klangsang, President of the Association for the Promotion of Military Sports (Thailand), and attended by international dignitaries including Colonel Nilson Gomes Rolim Filho, President of the International Military Sports Council (CISM); Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan, President of the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA); along with high-ranking military officials and global sports leaders.
Muaythai, already fully recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and SportAccord, has now been officially included in the CISM sports program, marking its growing relevance on the international military sports calendar. This first-of-its-kind competition is a joint initiative between the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, the Association for the Promotion of Military Sports (Thailand), and IFMA, under the auspices of CISM—the IOC-recognized body for international military sports.
The ceremony featured a grand parade of national and organizational flags, a vibrant traditional Muaythai performance, and a thrilling exhibition match between two of the sport’s most iconic athletes: Buakaw Banchamek and Superbon Singmawin—drawing loud cheers from the crowd and showcasing the power and elegance of Thailand’s national sport.
Running from July 10–13, the four-day international event includes elite-level Muaythai competition, Wai Kru and Mae Mai Muaythai demonstrations, instructor workshops, and a variety of cultural activities aimed at promoting knowledge, tradition, and global friendship through sport.
Dr. Sutin Klangsang reaffirmed the Thai military’s strong commitment to advancing Muaythai globally, positioning the sport as a dynamic form of soft power that reflects Thai identity and strengthens international ties through sport.
Colonel Nilson Gomes Rolim Filho, President of CISM, congratulated Thailand on this historic milestone, expressing deep appreciation to the Royal Thai Army, the Association for the Promotion of Military Sports (Thailand), and IFMA for their exceptional cooperation. He emphasized the enduring relevance of the CISM motto: “Friendship Through Sport”, which was powerfully embodied throughout the opening.
The event is broadcast live daily and includes highlight segments on the Olympic Channel, ensuring worldwide exposure for Muaythai as both a sport and a cultural legacy.
IFMA extends heartfelt thanks to CISM for the inclusion of Muaythai, and to the Kingdom of Thailand for hosting the first official CISM Muaythai event.
As IFMA notes: “We are always stronger together.”