The 2025 IFMA Athletes Conference marked a historic gathering of Muaythai’s most passionate competitors of all abilities in beautiful Abu Dhabi. Athletes from around the globe came together not just as champions in the ring, but as advocates for the sport, sharing experiences, challenges, and visions for the future.
This annual tradition combines sporting and educational exchange. Participants engaged in interactive workshops, panel discussions, and strategy sessions designed to strengthen athlete representation in IFMA decision-making processes. Topics ranged from athlete welfare, anti-doping education, and career transition planning, to promoting inclusion, gender equality, and mental health support within the sport.
Keynote speakers this year included IFMA International’s Annabelle Tucker and Thais Cevada from ITA, who inspired attendees with their insights and commitment to athlete empowerment.
A highlight of the conference was the open forum, where athletes voiced ideas directly to IFMA leadership, helping shape policies that impact training standards, competition rules, and global development programs. The collaborative spirit was palpable, reinforcing IFMA’s commitment to listening to those at the heart of the sport—the athletes themselves.
The conference concluded with a unifying message: when athletes’ voices are heard, Muaythai grows stronger, safer, and more inspiring for future generations. IFMA remains dedicated to ensuring that every fighter, whether a rising star or seasoned champion, has the opportunity to contribute to the sport’s ongoing evolution.
Thank you to all the athletes—you show us that the future of Muaythai is not only safe but truly inspirational and that we always stand together as One World One Muaythai.