BANGKOK, Thailand – The historic Rajadamnern Stadium was alive with energy on 20 December 2024 as the Amazing Muay Thai: Road to Rajadamnern series concluded with a spectacular night of combat. Hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in collaboration with Global Sport Ventures, the event highlighted Thailand’s cultural soft power, drawing global attention to Muay Thai as an emblem of the nation’s heritage.
The series, which captivated audiences earlier this year in Spain, Australia, and the Czech Republic, culminated in Bangkok with four thrilling matches. Each bout featured top Thai fighters facing off against international champions, showcasing the global appeal of Muay Thai.
Unforgettable Matches and Champions Crowned
The finale kicked off with a spirited lightweight (135 lbs) bout in the men’s division, where Yodtanong Phetwanglang (Thailand) triumphed over Czech champion Tomik Nguyen. The action continued in the women’s featherweight (126 lbs) division as Bryony Soden (Australia) defeated Petchmai Sor. Pracha.
In the men’s super featherweight (130 lbs) division, Wukong Sitjaroenwit (Thailand) demonstrated incredible skill to overcome Ibrahim Abou Saleh. The event concluded with an electrifying clash in the men’s 119 lbs division, where Kevin Martinez (Spain) emerged victorious against Thailand’s Yonis Anane.
A Global Showcase of Thai Culture
The Amazing Muay Thai: Road to Rajadamnern series showcased Thailand’s unique cultural identity to the world through a combination of electrifying matches and cultural promotion. The events attracted over 5,200 attendees across all stages, with 1,650 attendees in Cádiz, Spain (27 July), 1,200 in Melbourne, Australia (31 August), and another 1,200 in Prague, the Czech Republic (30 November).
These events generated more than 6 million online impressions and reached over 30 million through offline media, reinforcing Muay Thai as both a cultural phenomenon and an ambassador of Thailand’s rich heritage.
“Muay Thai is more than a sport; it is a gateway to understanding Thailand’s history, traditions, and passion,” said TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool. “By bringing Muay Thai to an international audience and welcoming them to its birthplace, we not only share our heritage but inspire tourism to Thailand.”
The Road to Rajadamnern: A Legacy Continues
The resounding success of this year’s series underscores the global appeal of Muay Thai. As 2025 approaches, TAT plans to continue spotlighting Muay Thai as a key element of Thailand’s cultural tourism strategy, laying the foundation for innovative campaigns that connect global audiences with the heart of Thai heritage. (TAT)
