Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The roar of more than 500 athletes echoed through the Self-Defense Hall at the Prince Faisal Bin Fahd Sport Complex in Malaz as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosted a historic two-day Muaythai Master Class, uniting participants of all ages and abilities from across the nation.

The event marked another significant milestone in the growing partnership between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kingdom of Thailand through the art and sport of Muaythai.

A Ceremony of Tradition and Friendship

The opening ceremony paid tribute to Muaythai’s rich cultural roots with a captivating wai kru and muay boran performance, honouring the heritage, discipline, and values that define the sport.

Abdulaziz Al-Banan, CEO of the Saudi Muaythai Federation, on behalf of His Royal Highness Prince Fahad bin Mansour bin Saad bin Saud Al Saud, warmly welcomed the Thai delegation. He expressed pride in Saudi Arabia’s expanding role within the global Muaythai movement and reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to structured development at all levels.

HSH Prince Nawaphansa Yugala, Chair of the IFMA Advisory Board, praised the Saudi Muaythai Federation for its rapid progress and congratulated the Kingdom on its successful hosting of the World Combat Games and the Islamic Solidarity Games — events he experienced firsthand. He encouraged athletes to seize the opportunity to train with Thailand’s finest ambassadors of the sport.

H.E. Mr. Attakorn Sirilattayakorn, Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, thanked the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its warm hospitality and remarkable sporting achievements. He emphasized Muaythai as a powerful cultural bridge and highlighted the importance of sports tourism through Muaythai. Looking at the full house of enthusiastic athletes, he noted that the future of cooperation between both nations looks exceptionally bright.

Stephan Fox, IFMA Secretary General and President of United Through Sports, reflected on the federation’s journey since its first workshop in 2019. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s historic hosting of the World Combat Games — the first fully inclusive edition — and the Kingdom’s continued leadership in international sport. He also celebrated Saudi Arabia’s pioneering female athletes, notably Hattan Alsaif, who captured the nation’s first-ever gold medal and has since become a role model across the Islamic world.

The ceremony concluded with the introduction of Muaythai legend Buakaw Banchamek, alongside fellow stars Ritthidet (Petchyindee Academy) and Phayahong (Ayothaya Fight Gym), supported by a distinguished team of Thai Masters guiding the workshops.

Distinguished Thai Delegation

The event welcomed a high-level Thai delegation, including:

  • HSH Prince Nawaphansa Yugala, Chair of the IFMA Advisory Board
  • M.L. Anuporn Kashemsant
  • H.E. Mr. Attakorn Sirilattayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports
  • Mrs. Proadpran Samarnmit, Deputy Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand
  • Mr. Nattapon Antarasena, Director of the Boxing Sports Commission Office
  • Representatives from the Sports Authority of Thailand and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports
  • Maj. Gen. Nirin Punnothok, Secretary General of the Military Sports Association of Thailand

Their presence underscored the importance of sport diplomacy and cultural exchange between the two nations.

Training with Legends

The master class began with a strong focus on youth development, guiding young athletes through the fundamentals — stance, balance, and the basic techniques of fists, kicks, knees, and elbows. Beyond technical skills, the sessions emphasized discipline, respect, and an understanding of Muaythai’s traditions.

Advanced sessions challenged experienced athletes with elite-level drills, tactical combinations, defensive strategies, and conditioning programs mirroring professional competition standards.

Each day concluded with the traditional wai kru, reminding participants that Muaythai is more than competition — it is a living cultural heritage passed down through generations.

For many, the highlight was training alongside Buakaw and the Thai champions. The excitement surrounding photos and autographs reflected Muaythai’s growing popularity in the Kingdom and its strong inspirational impact on the next generation.

Building Bridges Beyond the Ring

Thailand’s Minister of Tourism and Sports emphasized that this marks the third consecutive year Thailand has promoted Muaythai internationally. The initiative strengthens bilateral relations and opens pathways for cooperation not only in sport, but also in tourism, agriculture, and economic development.

The 2026 Sports Tourism initiative aligns with Thailand’s broader strategy of positioning sport as a driver of sustainable economic growth while elevating Muaythai’s recognition on the global stage.

As HSH Prince Nawaphansa Yugala stated:

“Today is more than just training — it is a celebration of friendship, tradition, and excellence. Muaythai inspires us to grow together.”

A Vision for the Future

This landmark Master Class represents far more than a technical workshop. It stands as a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and shared ambition.

Saudi Arabia has demonstrated its commitment to building a strong, inclusive Muaythai future, while Thailand continues to serve as the guardian of the sport’s rich heritage.

Together, both nations reaffirm that Muaythai is not only fought in the ring — it is a bridge between cultures, a platform for youth empowerment, and a powerful force for international friendship.