The Sichuan Gymnasium in Chengdu was electric as the semi-finals of Muaythai at The World Games 2025 unfolded in front of a full house of roaring fans. With every seat filled and the VIP section glittering with dignitaries—including members of the International Olympic Committee and the Chinese Olympic Committee—the atmosphere was nothing short of sensational. The crowd’s passion for Nak Muay was palpable, and the athletes responded with performances that will be remembered for years to come.
China’s Female Warriors Lead the Charge
- -48kg Female Division: Xiaohui Liu became the pride of the host nation, delivering a commanding performance against Rudzma Abubakar. With a style that blended unpredictability and finesse, Liu kept her opponent off balance and surged into the finals—becoming the first Chinese athlete to do so. Her heart and determination lit up the arena.
- 60kg Female Division: Xin Han followed suit with a stirring display of grit and grace against IFMA champion Marina Bespalova (AIN). Han’s tactical brilliance and emotional intensity earned her a place among the elite, proving that China’s female fighters are a force to be reckoned with.
Global Talent Shines Bright
- -54kg Female Division: Laura, a reigning world champion and IWGA Athlete of the Month (June), reaffirmed her dominance with a masterclass performance. Her precision and poise reminded everyone why she’s at the top of her game.
60kg Female Division: In a clash of styles, Turkey’s Kubra Kokackus unleashed rapid-fire combinations against Thailand’s Kaewrudee Kamtakrapoom, whose lethal kicks kept the crowd on edge. Ultimately, Kokackus’ relentless pace secured her the win in a bout that had fans on their feet.
71kg Male Division: Gianluca Franzosi of Italy stunned the crowd with the biggest upset of the event. A product of IFMA’s grassroots development, Franzosi’s tactical brilliance and composure earned him a world-class victory and a ticket to the finals.
57kg Male Division: Ruach Gordan of Israel battled Darren Rolland of France in a nail-biting contest. Gordan’s tenacity and unwavering focus propelled him past the finish line, keeping his golden dreams alive.
86kg Male Division: Artiom Livadari of Moldova delivered a commanding performance against China’s Chengcheng Zhang. With relentless pressure and strategic dominance, Livadari controlled every round, showcasing elite-level mastery and securing his place in the final.
Muaythai: A Cultural and Athletic Triumph
Muaythai has been voted one of the top sports of The World Games 2025, thanks to its electrifying atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. The semi-finals proved why it’s an Olympic-recognized sport—where athleticism meets artistry, and sportsmanship reigns supreme.
With the finals already sold out, anticipation is soaring. Gold, silver, and bronze are all up for grabs, and the world is watching to see who will rise to the top.
Congratulations to all athletes for their outstanding performances and for embodying the spirit of Muaythai. The road to the podium continues—let the finals begin!