Gold medals for Malaysia – Ali Bin Yakuub and Ain Bin Kamarrudin IMAGE Muaythai Malaysia

An exciting day in Kuala Lumpur for IFMA athletes as gold medals were awarded on the final day of SEA Games muaythai action.

Cambodia, Malaysia and Thailand were all involved with each country claiming gold at various weights to the delight of the international crowd. IFMA President Dr Sakcyhe Tapsuwan who attended every day of competition said the standard was very high across the four days, and he was proud to see the athletes having their turn to shine at this exciting tournament.

For the home supporters – who have come out in force every day in their orange shirts for Malaysia Muaythai – they had plenty to cheer about. At 54kgs Mohd Ali Bin Yakuub won gold against Thai champion Surachai Naktheam  – dancing his way around the arena and out of the stadium to loud cheers.

And Ain Bin Kamarrudiin defeated Thachtana Luangpon in a very tight battle taking the win on 29 to 28 points.

Cambodia’s Vann Voern claims his place in the finals IMAGE: Cambodia NOC

But Thailand took revenege at 67kgs claiming gold for Mana Samchaiyaphum against Malay champion Tengu Shahrizal. Aneung Khattamarasri also took gold, adding to his bronze medal from The World Games 2017 with silver going to Meung Sophea from Cambodia.

Another Cambodian athlete Khun Dima took gold at 63.5kg, defeating Thai champion Chonlawit Preedasak in a very exciting bout, with great technique from both – taking the win on 29 points to 28.

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