As April draws to a close, Muaythai once again proves that it is more than a combat sport it’s a united international movement. From university campuses to Olympic-affiliated coaching programs, a striking lineup of nine events across nine countries is turning this two-week stretch into a powerful testament to Muaythai’s global rhythm. It is surprisingly paving its way to the 2032 Olympics, with each gathering reinforcing the sport’s growing international credibility and institutional support.
Under the umbrella of the International Federation of Muaythai Associations, these events offer a compelling snapshot of a sport thriving through education, grassroots commitment, and international solidarity.
In Serbia, the Petrovaradin-hosted Serbian Open Cup II returns on April 26 as a major fixture on the European Muaythai calendar. Open to all age groups and governed by full IFMA rules, this event stands as a cornerstone in the Balkans’ effort to build a new generation of fighters. It’s more than a tournament, it’s a strategic investment in the region’s athletic future.
Heading further east, Armenia prepares to welcome teams from across the Caucasus to the Yerevan Open International Championship from April 28 to 30. Backed by the Armenian National Olympic Committee, this championship reflects Armenia’s growing stake in the global Muaythai family. It’s a critical moment not just for competition, but for raising the standard of the sport in a region with immense potential.
In Tehran, the Iran Coaching & Referee International Course (April 25–27) embodies the IFMA’s One Standard approach, an education-focused drive to unify technical and officiating quality worldwide. The course features elite instructors and Grand Masters from Thailand, underlining West Asia’s deepening commitment to technical excellence and global integration.
On the African continent, South Africa brings a unique local flavour to the global stage. On April 26, a hybrid event blending Muaythai with the white-collar boxing format offers community fighters and amateur athletes a space to engage and evolve. This grassroots initiative reflects Muaythai’s increasing accessibility and its power to connect communities through sport.
Malaysia, a rising force in Southeast Asian Muaythai, hosts not one but two events on April 26–27. The popular JFC 9.0 tournament continues its reputation as one of the nation’s most active circuits, while a parallel Muaythai Amateur Fight limited to 100 entries ensures that young fighters get the regular ring time they need to develop. It’s a one-two punch that signals both growth and sustainability.
Elsewhere, events in Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Poland round out the fortnight. From a university championship in Ashrafieh, Lebanon to the Krakow Muaythai League in Poland—where even 4- to 11-year-olds participate in the Galician Kick Pads division—each event adds a distinctive beat to the global drum of Muaythai.
Together, these nine events speak volumes about the sport’s momentum. Whether through the roar of the crowd in a local gym or the quiet discipline of a referee course, the message is the same: Muaythai is moving forward and the world is moving with it.
