Round 12: Grand Muay Thai Event in Verona
By Mauricio Sulaiman – WBC President – Son of Jose Sulaiman
The second leg of my extensive journey has concluded, and I’m heading to Turkey to further advance the World Boxing Council’s initiatives.
The World Muay Thai Boxing festival took place in the stunning city of Verona, Italy. Over three days, competitors showcased high-level matches in the world of Muay Thai. With 948 bouts spread across six rings, fighters from more than 90 countries competed in various categories, ranging from youth to elite levels in both men’s and women’s divisions.
The Mexican contingent showed strong representation, achieving impressive results under Julio Gamboa’s leadership of WBC Muay Thai Mexico.
The World Boxing Council established a Muay Thai committee at the request of the beloved King Bhumibol Rama IX, who was concerned about the deterioration of this ancient discipline. He felt that the true essence of the sport needed protection from distorted interpretations that lacked respect for its rich cultural heritage.
This December, we will host our annual convention in Bangkok, Thailand—a significant event that will bring together boxing and Muay Thai for the very first time as we unite for this global summit.
Recently, expectations were high for a fight that generated mixed opinions among fans. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. faced Jake Paul, losing by unanimous decision. Various media outlets noted that it was mostly one-sided, focusing criticism on Julio’s lack of activity throughout the match.
Throughout the past weekend, WBC events flourished in Canada, with Christian Mbilli stunningly knocking out Maciej Sulecki in just one round to claim the WBC interim super middleweight title. Michal Cieslak also made headlines by defeating former champion Jean Pascal in four rounds, earning the interim cruiserweight title.
Lastly, new interim world flyweight champion Francisco “Chihuas” Rodriguez recently received the title he longed for. After a decade, he is determined to work harder in pursuit of becoming the undisputed champion, recognizing the tougher challenges ahead.
DID YOU KNOW…?
The King of Thailand sought my father’s assistance in supervising Muay Thai to preserve its core authenticity as it began to drift from its roots. Don Jose willingly accepted this responsibility, ensuring that the sport maintains its traditional elements as it continues to thrive in Thailand.
ANECDOTE OF THE DAY
Don Jose regarded Thailand as a second home, forging lasting friendships there and visiting the King on numerous occasions. He often humorously declared that his “home” was the Peninsula Hotel, where he stayed in room 114 during his visits dedicated to World Boxing Council matters.
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