Buakaw Banchamek shines in Muay Thai at Paris 2024

Muay Thai legend Buakaw Banchamek thrilled attendees yesterday as he led an impressive Muay Thai showcase at Club France in Paris. The event, held alongside the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, was organised by the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) in partnership with the French National Olympic Committee.

The showcase included virtual competition displays and captivated a global audience, highlighting the traditional martial arts’s rich heritage. The atmosphere at Club France was charged with excitement as sports fans from around the world celebrated the event.

This marks a significant achievement for the IFMA, which has been dedicated to promoting Muay Thai for 31 years. The sport received recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, setting the stage for its potential future inclusion as an official Olympic sport.

Buakaw expressed immense pride in representing Thai martial arts on this prestigious platform.

“Seeing Muay Thai at the Olympics is a career highlight. Bringing our art to such a prestigious event is incredible. If it becomes an official Olympic sport, it will be a tremendous honour.”

Buakaw, who also serves as a cultural ambassador, highlighted the importance of showcasing Muay Thai to a global audience. He encouraged young athletes to train diligently, aspiring for them to one day represent Thailand in the Olympics. If there’s no age limit, I’d love to compete or perform Wai Kru at the Olympics.

The event underscores the growing international recognition and appreciation for Muay Thai. Buakaw’s presence and performance provided a powerful testament to the sport’s cultural and competitive significance, reported Pattaya News.

In related news, The Thailand Sporting Trade Association predicts a rise in sports interest and equipment sales following Thai athletes’ successes at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Notable performances in taekwondo, badminton, and boxing are driving public enthusiasm, boosting the sports merchandise market, particularly in apparel and footwear, with projected significant growth.