Chengdu, China – 26 July 2025 In a landmark moment for The World Games and the sport of Muaythai, IFMA proudly celebrated the participation of Sofia Olofsson—one of Muaythai’s most decorated champions—in the first-ever Torch Relay for TWG 2025. Held at the iconic Sanxingdui Museum in Deyang, near Chengdu, the relay marked the ceremonial beginning of The World Games 2025, which will welcome over 4,000 athletes from nearly 120 countries competing in 34 sports and 60 disciplines from 7–17 August.
Sofia Olofsson, multiple-time IFMA and WMC World Champion and IWGA Athlete of the Year in 2016, joined a star-studded lineup of torchbearers that included Olympic gymnastics champion Huang Zhangjiayang, karate legend Sandra Sanchez, lifesaving champion Marcel Hassemeier, and martial arts icon Jackie Chan.
Olofsson’s inclusion in this historic relay is a testament to her enduring legacy in Muaythai. With gold medals from the IFMA World Championships, the Royal World Cup, and The World Games 2017, Sofia has long been recognized as one of IFMA’s most accomplished athletes. Her technical brilliance, relentless spirit, and sportsmanship have made her a role model for fighters around the world. As the first female Muaythai athlete to qualify for The World Games, and later win gold, her journey continues to inspire the next generation.
Joining her was Jackie Chan, globally revered for his legendary Kung Fu films, daring stunts, and humanitarian work. An Honorary Academy Award winner and Guinness World Record holder, Chan has also been a long-time supporter of Muaythai through IFMA and WMC. His presence at the relay underscored the deep cultural and martial arts heritage shared between Muaythai and other Asian disciplines.
The torch relay featured 120 torchbearers from diverse sectors of society, including arts, technology, education, and grassroots sport. IWGA President José Perurena captured the spirit of the event in his message:
“This flame is a powerful symbol—an inspiration that reflects our shared values of sporting excellence, diversity, and peace through sport.”
As the flame travels across Sichuan Province, it carries with it the passion of athletes like Sofia Olofsson and the unity of the global sporting community. IFMA celebrates this moment as a proud chapter in Muaythai’s journey on the world stage.
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