Mexico Mariana Ramirez Sachez waiting to compete (and win)

Today saw the start of the women’s competitions and the next rounds of the male divisions with an every-growing crowd of tourists and locals from Cancun discovering the joys of muaythai.

Among the exciting bouts was Maria Raminerz Sanchez facing Huyen Hoang Minh from Vietnam.Backed by a very enthusiastic crowd, Maria powered out from the start with looping punches and swift lower kicks, hardly pausing to breathe. Huyem was unfazed and used a strong teep to great effect but Maria took the bout clearly on points.

Also in the women’s division Lola Russo from Argentina won against Cristina Porras Herrera Costa Rica in a great bout. Two very different styles with Cristina using more her hands, while Lola worked on the knees and elbows, taking the win on points.

Isa Tidbald Keskikangas, Sweden faced Nili Block, Israel in a rematch of their bout at The European Championships in July. A close result with Nili taking the win on points. Anaelle Angerville of France faced 2017 silver medalist Erin Jimenez USA and took the points with a powerful and tactical approach. Ukraine’s women’s team was also in action with Lena

In the men’s divisions the crowd waited until late into the evening for the heavyweights to take centre stage, and it was worth the wait with Russia and Ukraine taking the points, joining Sweden, Peru, Kazakhstan and others for tomorrow’s bouts.

Keep up with live results on IFMA LIve, and follow IFMA on social media for behind-the-scenes updates:

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