Montreal, Quebec – Muaythai in Canada is entering a new era of unity and recognition under the determined leadership of Muaythai Canada President, Alin Halmagean. With a vision rooted in Olympic values and IFMA’s constitution, Halmagean has been working tirelessly to build a national framework that brings together provinces, athletes, and officials under one roof. This month marks a historic milestone: the first-ever Muaythai Canada Coaching Seminar in Quebec, co-led by Halmagean and Ajahn Suchart, and proudly sponsored by the Royal Thai Embassy.
Held in the culturally rich province of Quebec—home to the 1976 Summer Olympics and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) headquarters in Montreal—this seminar is more than a training event. It’s a strategic push to unite the Muaythai community in Quebec, a province with deep Olympic roots and global sporting relevance. Over 60 coaches and practitioners have confirmed attendance, signaling a strong appetite for growth and collaboration.
“We are, in many ways, a niche community,” said Halmagean. “When we compete internally, we hold ourselves back—but by standing united, we can advance Muaythai across Quebec and elevate its reach throughout Canada. Quebec’s athlete representation at IFMA and our national events should be on par with the powerhouse provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario.”
The seminar will feature a coaching course that establishes a strong foundation in Muaythai’s rules and regulations, with a core focus on athlete health and safety. Strategic planning is underway for referee and judge seminars, as well as the inaugural Quebec Provincial Championships later this year. Under the leadership of Mr. Karim Chebbi, President of Muaythai Quebec, and a passionate, fully Quebecois board of directors, the province is on track to become a national model for grassroots development and institutional recognition.
This initiative is part of a broader national effort. Since assuming the presidency, Halmagean has been helping provinces navigate the complex process of gaining recognition from their provincial ministries, with the ultimate goal of securing Muaythai’s place under Sport Canada and the Canadian Olympic Committee. The journey is long and often misunderstood—but essential.
“If we don’t work together, the sport will not be recognized,” Halmagean emphasized.
Momentum continues to build with an increasing number of WMC events taking place across Canada—creating a more structured pathway for athletes from grassroots development to professional competition. The WMC North American Title will be contested in Ottawa, followed by a Canada vs. Brazil Pan American Title defense in February, and many other exciting potential WMC international titles down the pipeline further solidifying Canada’s position on the international Muaythai stage.
The seminar will be held under the blessing of the Royal Thai Embassy, with Nuttapat Chumnijarakij, Chargé d’affaires, attending in support. In August, Muaythai Canada will honor His Excellency Kallayana Vipattipumiprates, Ambassador of Thailand in Canada and Honorary President of Muaythai Canada, for his continued support in growing the sport across the nation.
This is more than a seminar—it’s a movement. A call to unify. A blueprint for other National Federations navigating the path to recognition. And above all, a tribute to the power of collaboration in building a future where Muaythai thrives in every province, every gym, and every athlete’s heart.