Muay Thai competition to feature 28 boxers from six countries
SHAH ALAM - In an adrenaline-pumping showdown at Titiwangsa Stadium, 28 elite boxers from around the globe will vie for glory and 12 championship belts at the Kuda Merah International World Muay Thai Championship 2023.
The competition marks a triumphant return after a two-year Covid-19 hiatus.
Organised by the Kuala Lumpur Kuda Merah Muay Thai club, the Grand Final, dubbed the 'Clash of Champions', promises an intense battle among fighters from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Afghanistan, Morocco, Italy, and Iran.
The 72nd edition of this prestigious event has garnered strong support from Tourism Malaysia, becoming a highlight on the 2023 tourism calendar.
More than 5,000 spectators are expected to fill Titiwangsa Stadium, during the two nights of November 25 and 26, starting from 8pm.
Muhammad Firdaus Yaacop, the driving force behind the Kuda Merah Kuala Lumpur Muay Thai club, expressed his excitement for the tournament.
"We aim to upgrade the local muaythai sports tournament to an international level," he said, emphasising the event's significance in promoting Malaysia on the world stage.
The event will feature a special appearance from Mat Ropi Kuda Merah PDRM, a seasoned boxer from Kelantan with over 100 fights under his belt.
As the number one boxer of the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), his participation added an extra layer of prestige to the championship.
Mohd Rafi Abdul Manaf, known as Mat Ropi, was determined to make an impact in the upcoming Muay Thai tournament.
"This time, my only hope is that the audiences, especially from the east coast, can come and support us ," he said.
With months of dedicated training, Mat Ropi aims to claim the special belt that awaits the ultimate champion.
Meanwhile, Putra Abdullah Mahmoud, an 18-year-old rising star, spoke of his intense preparation for the event.
"The training for this competition has been very intense, and the feeling is good and different," he said.
With only one week left before the competition, Putra is focused on completing his final week of training, determined to secure the main special belt.
The tournament boasted a range of prizes, including 10 championship belts, 2 round champion belts, 2 trophies, and cash.
As the fighters geared up for the 'Clash of Champions,' the winners would face another challenge in the following year's event, scheduled for November 2024.
With the support of fans, sponsors, and the dedication of the athletes, the Kuda Merah International World Muay Thai Championship is poised to become a prestigious annual event, putting Malaysia firmly on the world map of international Muay Thai sports.
