The Muaythai finals at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu delivered an unforgettable spectacle for athletes and spectators alike. Held at the iconic Sichuan Gymnasium—one of the centerpiece venues of the Games—the event drew one of the highest attendances across all sports and was broadcast to millions across China, further amplifying Muaythai’s growing popularity in the region.
The VIP section brimmed with distinguished guests, including senior officials from the Chinese Government, the Chinese Olympic Committee, the International Olympic Committee, representatives from other international federations, and even movie stars. The atmosphere was nothing short of electric.
One of the most historic moments came in the 48kg Female Division, where Xiaohui Liu of China faced Thailand’s IFMA World Champion Kullanat Aonok. Liu delivered the performance of a lifetime, earning a roaring standing ovation as she became the first Chinese athlete to win Muaythai gold at The World Games—setting the tone for an extraordinary evening.
In the 57kg Male Division, two world champions clashed in a thrilling bout: Ukraine’s Dmytro Shelesko and Israel’s Ruach Gordan. From the opening bell to the final seconds, it was non-stop, world-class Muaythai. Dmytro claimed the gold, but both athletes earned immense respect for their skill and heart.
The 54kg Female Division featured a showdown between reigning world champion and Challenger Muaythai Champion Laura Burgos and Poland’s Martyna Kierczynska, a multiple-time IFMA and WMC champion. In a tactical masterclass, Burgos narrowly edged out Kierczynska, reversing the outcome of their 2023 World Combat Games encounter. A rematch seems inevitable.
In the 71kg Male Division, three-time world champion Konstantin Shakhtarink (AIN) faced Italy’s Gianluca Franzosi, a former IFMA Youth World Champion. Gianluca’s journey to the final highlighted the power of grassroots development. Despite his impressive run, it was Shakhtarink who secured the gold.
The 86kg Male Division saw Moldova’s Artiom Livadari, IFMA World and FISU Champion, take on USA’s Aaron Ortiz, a three-time IFMA World Champion and former World Games gold medalist. Their clash was a showcase of Muaythai’s full arsenal—kicks, punches, flying knees, and elbows—with Artiom earning the gold after a standing ovation-worthy performance.
The final bout of the evening in the 60kg Female Division was a showstopper. China’s Xin Han, fresh off a semi-final win over Thailand’s top kicker, faced Turkey’s Kurbra Kocakus, a three-time IFMA World Champion and World Combat Games Champion. The crowd erupted as both athletes went strike for strike in a breathtaking contest. Xin Han emerged victorious, becoming a national hero and further cementing Muaythai’s place in the hearts of millions.
Bronze Medalists:
- 48kg Female: Oumaima Belouarrat (MAR)
- 57kg Male: Daren Rolland (FRA)
- 54kg Female: Monika Chochlikova (SVK)
- 71kg Male: Norbert Speth (HUN)
- 60kg Female: Kaewrudee Kamtakrapoom (THA)
- 86kg Male: Chengcheng Zhang (CHN)
Muaythai once again proved why it is one of the fastest-growing combat sports in the world—fully recognized by the International Olympic Committee and proudly featured at The World Games.
Congratulations to all athletes for their incredible performances, regardless of podium placement. You’ve made history.
