Abu Dhabi, UAE: The IFMA Youth World Championships 2025 took center stage at Abu Dhabi’s Space 42 Arena from September 10-19, bringing together athletes from over 100 nations. The world’s best delivered electrifying combat performances across disciplines including the elegance of Wai Kru, Mai Muay, and Muay Talay, as well as the pinnacle events, the inspirational Para and Special Muaythai divisions, with youth aged 8 to 17 showcased the full diversity and spirit of Muaythai.
Having worked with the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) for several years, the past year has been to support and guide their vision to create opportunities for more youth to access the sport. United Through Sports (UTS) travelled to Abu Dhabi to support youth engagement. CEO Julia Govinden and team were on the ground alongside the ever playful UTS mascot Alexx the Axolotl, spreading smiles and promoting inclusion during the opening ceremony. Alexx, a friendly, child-at-heart axolotl known for its regenerative abilities, symbolizes resilience, diversity, and the importance of creating a world where every young athlete belongs.
Athletes Conference: Listening to Youth Voices
A highlight of the Championships was the 2025 IFMA Athletes Conference, a one-of-a-kind gathering bringing together Muaythai’s most passionate competitors of all abilities. Youth athletes from across the globe engaged directly with IFMA leadership, offering ideas that will shape policies on training standards, competition rules, and global development programs.
Another innovative initiative was the Youth Representative Meeting, fully led by dynamic young leaders Annabelle Tucker and Aaliyan Khurram, where young athletes shared their pride, fears, experiences, and aspirations.
Participants also engaged in a creative challenge: “Imagine you’re IFMA President for a day, what would you do for the youth?” Ideas flowed freely, from establishing a global mentorship program connecting young athletes with seasoned champions, to financial support systems enabling travel to international competitions.
The rapid-fire exercise, “Muaythai makes me feel…,” brought out words like strong, alive, confident, respectful, and unstoppable, highlighting the emotional depth and personal growth that Muaythai fosters in young athletes.
UTS Young Leader Bassam Murthasa Shines on the Ring
Bassam Murthasa, a 12-year-old Muaythai athlete and UTS Young Leader representing Sri Lanka, won two medals at the event: Bronze in Mai Muay and gold in Muay Talay. Already a multiple national and international titleholder, Bassam exemplifies determination and dedication at a young age. We’re proud to see our Young Leader thriving in his passion and continuing his journey as a martial artist. Bassam shared:
“Competing at the IFMA Youth World Championship in Abu Dhabi was an amazing experience for me. I met athletes from all over the world, learned so much, and felt proud to represent Sri Lanka. Winning medals made me really happy, but what I value most are the memories, friendships, and lessons I gained.”
Equally inspiring, Bassam’s father, Sadak Ali, took on a role as judge and referee. Reflecting on his experience, he said:
“Becoming a referee and judge is both passion and responsibility. After years supporting my son and the Muaythai family, I wanted to ensure fairness and safety in the ring. It’s about safeguarding the spirit of Muaythai, respecting the athletes’ hard work, and keeping every match fair and safe.”
Putting the Next Generation at the Center
IFMA’s innovative initiatives truly put youth at the center of Muaythai. By giving young athletes a stage and a voice, they can share ideas, feedback, and experiences directly with decision-makers. This approach not only empowers the next generation but also ensures that policies, programs, and competitions evolve in ways that reflect the perspectives of those who will shape the sport’s future.
Providing opportunities for youth to be heard fosters leadership, creativity, and responsibility, showing that when young athletes are given the right platform, they can drive meaningful change.
As the federation continues to listen, learn, and implement the voices of its young athletes, the future of Muaythai is in capable hands: a generation ready to redefine the sport for everyone, everywhere. We are proud to support this federation and now focus on how best to implement divisioning of the Para and Special Competitions as well as supporting education for the National Federation coaches and officials.
Learn more about IFMA’s work for and with the youth
