The 2025 Annual General Assembly of the International Federation of Muaythai Associations, held in Abu Dhabi, went far beyond a routine administrative meeting. It became a platform for redefining the direction of one of the world’s fastest-growing martial arts, a sport that has evolved from the sacred temples of Thailand into a global cultural and ethical movement.
At first glance, the gathering followed the familiar pattern of international federations; annual reports, budget discussions, and elections. Yet beneath this structure, the Abu Dhabi meeting carried deeper significance. IFMA’s approval of key policies, rules, and constitutional amendments marked a strong reaffirmation of its commitment to transparency, integrity, and accountability, three principles that define credibility in global sports governance today.
These reforms, endorsed unanimously by member federations, reflect IFMA’s clear understanding of modern expectations for ethical and transparent leadership. What began as a traditional combat art has matured into a modern institution that bridges culture and governance. This transformation strengthens IFMA’s long-term relationship with the International Olympic Committee.
IFMA President Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan set the tone for the event, calling on members to uphold unity, respect, and collective responsibility. Secretary General Stephan Fox followed with a report highlighting the federation’s progress in international cooperation, athlete education, and Olympic alignment. Both emphasized that IFMA’s mission extends beyond competition. It is about building character and community through the art of Muaythai.
A central theme of this year’s assembly was the adoption of the IFMA Agenda 2030, a long-term roadmap guiding the federation’s evolution over the next decade. The plan emphasizes education, inclusivity, and youth empowerment, as well as gender equality and sustainable development, not as slogans but as measurable objectives embedded in the organization’s structure.
IFMA – 2025 Annual General Assembly
Equally significant was IFMA’s ongoing commitment to athlete safeguarding. The approval of a global educational program for 2026, focusing on mental health, gender equality, and fair officiating, illustrates a shift toward a more human-centered approach to sport. IFMA’s vision of success is no longer limited to medals and rankings. It embraces respect, safety, and personal growth as core elements of the athlete experience.
The timing of the assembly, held alongside the IFMA Youth World Championships, added symbolic weight. Abu Dhabi became a living microcosm of the Muaythai world, a place where cultures converged, values met, and tradition coexisted with progress.
In her closing remarks, IFMA Director General Charissa Tynan captured the essence of the gathering:
“We are not just a federation. We are a global family connecting the tradition of Muaythai with the values of the Olympic movement.”
Today, IFMA represents more than 150 member countries, united not by geography but by shared principles. The structural reforms and Agenda 2030 adopted in Abu Dhabi stand as a model for how combat sports can evolve, blending heritage with governance and spirit with structure.
Ultimately, the 2025 IFMA General Assembly symbolized the maturity of Muaythai as an international sport. It marked a transition from tradition to institution, from passion to policy, and from the ring to reflection. In an era when the integrity of sport faces constant challenges, Muaythai’s message from Abu Dhabi was clear: strength must serve fairness, and victory must honor respect.
