Muaythai is preparing for another historic moment as it takes its place among the five core sports: Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Wrestling, Wushu, and Muaythai, at the FISU University World Championships Combat Sports, set to take place in Brasília, Brazil, from 8–13 June.
For the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA), this marks a proud return to the global university stage where muaythai has firmly belonged since becoming part of the FISU family in 2014.
The championship represents the second edition of this unique multi-sport combat showcase, bringing together the world’s best student-athletes in a celebration of excellence, discipline, and international friendship. Organized under the umbrella of the International University Sports Federation (FISU), an IOC-recognised organisation, the event reflects the guiding FISU mantra:
“Excellence in Mind and Body.”
It is a philosophy that resonates deeply with the essence of muaythai, where academic achievement, intellectual development, and athletic excellence exist in harmony, guided by the sport’s values of respect, discipline, and cultural heritage.
Throughout the past decade, IFMA has cultivated a strong and dynamic partnership with FISU and university sport federations across the globe. Together, they have helped position muaythai as a sport that not only develops champions in the ring, but also responsible global citizens beyond it.
The Brazilian Government, together with national sporting authorities and the Local Organising Committee, has demonstrated strong commitment and full support in hosting the championship in Brasília, ensuring that the event will meet the highest international standards while celebrating sport, culture, and education.
At the recent Technical Delegate Meeting, IFMA Technical Delegate Dr. Erdogan Aydin represented the federation, working closely with FISU and the Local Organising Committee to ensure that every aspect of the championship from athlete services to field-of-play operations meets the highest international standards.
Dr. Aydin praised the professionalism and dedication of the organisers and highlighted the spirit of cooperation guiding the preparations.
“The organisation and teamwork we witnessed during the preparations reflect the highest standards of international sport,” said Dr. Aydin. “With athletes at the centre of every decision, I am confident that Brasília will deliver a championship worthy of the world’s best university competitors.”
He further noted that preparations are fully aligned with IFMA’s strict technical, safety, and competition standards, ensuring that when the first athlete steps into the ring, the stage will be ready for world-class university competition.
IFMA President Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan highlighted the significance of muaythai being selected as one of the five combat sports featured in Brasília.
“To be chosen among the five core combat sports is both a privilege and a responsibility,” said Dr. Sakchye.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our athletes, coaches, officials, and national federations who continue to elevate muaythai on the global stage while preserving its cultural heritage and values.”
FISU President Leonz Eder expressed his excitement about the event and the cultural values it brings to the global university sport community. IFMA sincerely thanks President Eder for his vision and leadership in always putting athletes and the spirit of sport at the heart of the movement.
As the countdown to Brasília begins, IFMA extends its sincere gratitude to FISU, the Brazilian Government, the Brazilian National Federation, the Brazilian University Sports Federation, and the Local Organising Committee for their continued trust, partnership, and commitment to delivering a championship that unites education, sport, and youth leadership.
With the world’s university athletes preparing to gather in Brazil, muaythai stands ready once again to showcase its spirit, its culture, and its excellence on the global stage.
One World. One Muaythai.