USA Muaythai enters 2026 standing taller than ever—respected on the international stage, united at the national level, and firmly committed to continuing its path for and with the athletes. This moment marks both a celebration of extraordinary progress and the beginning of a new era for the federation.

Honoring Nine Transformative Years of Leadership

After nine years of dedicated service, Michael Corley concludes his second term as President of USA Muaythai, closing a chapter defined by integrity, sacrifice, and historic achievement.

When Corley stepped into leadership in 2016, his mission was clear: to legitimize USA Muaythai internationally and to build a federation rooted in transparency, education, and true International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) standards.

He delivered on that mission—and more.

Under his leadership, USA Muaythai:

  • Earned formal recognition from the United States Olympic Committee, securing Muaythai’s rightful place within the Olympic movement in the United States
  • Built a fully functioning, transparent nonprofit organization
  • Elevated education standards for athletes, coaches, and officials nationwide
  • Brought world-class officials—including leaders from Europe and Lumpinee Stadium—to train American referees and judges
  • Supported American athletes competing worldwide, assisting with visas, opportunities, and international exposure
  • Fully funded all qualified athletes for The World Games (2017, 2022, 2025) and the Paris 2024 Muaythai Demonstration

But Corley’s greatest pride was never titles or milestones—it was people.

Himself a successful Muaythai athlete, an author, and above all a true people person, he watched young athletes board airplanes for the first time and return home as world champions. He saw the USA Youth Team named Best Team multiple times. He witnessed the USA Adult Team earn Best Team at the Pan American Championships. And in 2022, he stood ringside as USA Muaythai topped the medal table and was named Best Team at The World Games—cementing the United States as a global Muaythai powerhouse.

True to his character, Corley always emphasized:

“The success is not mine—it belongs to a dedicated team sharing the same vision, ensuring athletes can be the best they can be and receive opportunities far beyond what they ever dreamed. The USA Muaythai Executive Board, coaches, doctors, entourage, and officials—we are a unique family.”

This is the American way of Muaythai.

A New Chapter: Welcoming President Lonnie Beck

Following a thorough vetting and election process, Lonnie Beck has been elected President of USA Muaythai for the 2026–2030 term.

Beck brings nearly two decades of experience as a coach, gym owner, and ambassador for the sport. As USA Muaythai’s former Chief Development Officer, he was an integral part of the successful executive team, helping expand athlete pathways and strengthen the federation’s national footprint. Now, it is his time to continue that path.

He steps into the presidency with clear vision and deep respect for the foundation laid before him.

“As I step into this role, I want to honor someone who has set an extraordinary standard—Michael Corley. For nine years, he poured his heart into USA Muaythai, giving his time, energy, and even personal resources without ever asking for anything in return. His leadership transformed this organization and elevated American Muaythai on the world stage. We owe him immense gratitude. I am committed to building on that legacy, upholding the highest standards of our sport, and taking USA Muaythai to new heights.”
— Lonnie Beck

The IFMA family bows in respect to outgoing President Corley, who will continue to serve within the IFMA Executive, working alongside incoming President Beck to ensure continuity, unity, and strength.

Athletes’ Voices at the Table: Welcoming Vivianne Morales

USA Muaythai also proudly welcomes Vivianne Morales as the newly elected Athlete Board Member.

A decorated champion, Morales brings firsthand experience and a powerful athlete perspective to the board:

  • 2025 USA Muaythai Grand National Champion
  • 2023 IFMA Youth World Champion
  • 2022 IFMA Youth World Champion

Her leadership ensures that athlete voices—both youth and adult—remain central to every decision the federation makes.

“I am excited and grateful for this opportunity. I look forward to doing my best to represent my fellow athletes.”
— Vivianne Morales

Looking Ahead

USA Muaythai stands at a pivotal moment rooted in the achievements of the past nine years and energized by leadership ready to build the next chapter.

Michael Corley leaves behind a federation transformed: respected globally, united domestically, and driven by integrity, transparency, and excellence.

Lonnie Beck and the new board step forward with fresh vision, strong leadership, and an unwavering commitment to elevating opportunities for athletes, coaches, and officials nationwide.

The future of USA Muaythai is bright, ambitious, and full of possibility.