The World Muaythai Council has staged a successful qualifier for the upcoming Challenger show in
beautiful Pattaya, Thailand.
The event, which was televised live on Thai TV and will be shown on ESPN, was literally a knock-
out success. Every fighter gave his all to secure a spot in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The opening fight saw Jay Woodham from England squaring up against Corley Fairtex, and this fight
had the crowd on its feet as both boys went toe-to-toe for 2 and a half rounds…. It was Corley who
stopped Jay with a fantastic combination.
Fight 2 saw Faizal Ramli from Malaysia take on Ahora from Iran, and again it was a war with both
boys going for the legs and solid grappling. It was Faizal proving in the 3rd round why he is called
the ‘Golden Elbow’ – stopping the Iranian.
Next up was Antuan Pinto from France taking on Igor Pedote Cabrita from Brazil, and that fight
was breathtaking from the opening bell. Both boys showed superb muaythai, and Antuan again
showed his world class in the final round as his strong leg kicks took their toll on the Brazilian.
The qtr final saw Auksuek the Thai superstar take on Arslan from Turkey, and it was Turkey
dominating the 1st round with fantastic hand skills. But in round 2, Auksuek really showed why he is
one of the best, by literally displaying all 8 muaythai weapons, stopping Arslan with a textbook head
kick.
The 1st semi final saw Corley from USA vs Faizal from Malaysia, Faizal again showed a solid
performance, working on all the injuries on Corley’s legs and stopping him in round 2 with leg kicks.
The 2nd semi-final saw the 2 favourites clashing, Antuan vs Auksuek, and was without doubt the
most spectacular fight of the day. The fight was a rollercoaster for both boys but it was the Thai with
a world class finish to advance to the final.
So the final was set – Malaysia vs Thailand. Auksuek , injured from his tough fight against France
could not come out in round 2 due to a shoulder injury, so it was Faizal from Malaysia winning
this, being crowned the champion of the day. This certainly makes Malaysia proud, being the host
country of Challenger.
There will be 3 more Challenger qualifiers in the coming months, look out for more details.
Let the Challenge commence!!!
