The 2025 Muaythai Australia (MTA) National Championships marked a landmark moment in Australian Muaythai history, highlighting the sport’s continued growth and the deep sense of community within the Muaythai family. With over 200 athletes competing in more than 150 bouts, this event was the largest of its kind to date and showcased the dedication, skill, and passion of Muaythai athletes from across the nation. As the sole recognized Muaythai Federation in Australia, Muaythai Australia (MTA) continues to be the cornerstone of the sport’s development in the country.
A standout feature of this year’s championships was the introduction of the Wai Kru competition as a medal event. In line with the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) philosophy, this competition emphasized the cultural heritage of Muaythai, providing athletes with the opportunity to demonstrate their respect for the sport’s traditions. This new addition was widely embraced by both athletes and spectators, adding a unique and enriching layer to the event.
The Championships also placed a strong focus on integrity and fair play, with educational sessions on clean sport, anti-doping practices, and banned substances, supported by Sports Integrity Australia. As a signatory to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), IFMA promotes the philosophy of Play True, and the event was conducted with the utmost transparency, ensuring that athletes competed in a safe and regulated environment.
A defining moment of the Championships was the inaugural MTA Gala Awards and Hall of Fame inductions. Joe Hilton and Abby Nelson were inducted into the MTA Hall of Fame in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the development of Muaythai in Australia. Their leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication were celebrated by the community, underlining their lasting impact on the sport.
Looking ahead, Australia’s Muaythai athletes are now focused on competing on the global stage, with senior athletes preparing for the IFMA Senior World Championships in Turkey this May, and youth athletes heading to the IFMA Youth World Championships in the UAE this September. These athletes have earned their place through exceptional skill, resilience, and determination, and will proudly represent Australia on the world stage. IFMA Vice President and Oceania President, who attended the event, praised the high standard of the Championships, as well as the strong educational focus.
The success of the 2025 Nationals has added significant momentum to the movement for Muaythai’s inclusion in the Olympic Games, with IFMA serving as the sole IOC-recognized federation for the sport. Muaythai Australia’s President, Nick Atkins, congratulated all involved in the success of the Championships and expressed optimism for the continued growth of the sport in Australia, emphasizing the importance of grassroots development and elite athlete support.
With the 2026 MTA Nationals already in the planning stages, Muaythai Australia is committed to making next year’s event even bigger and better, ensuring the sport continues to thrive and evolve in the coming years.
