The South Sudan Kickboxing Federation (SSKF) announced a new Mix Martial Arts (MMA) Muay Thai national champion in a ceremony held in the national capital, Juba.
James Majok Gau took the title in a showdown that saw him defeat Abednego Thon in a grand ceremony at Nyakuron Cultural Center on Saturday.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj, Puro Okello Obob, the federation’s president, said Majok is now eligible to fight internationally as the country’s champion.
“On Saturday, we held an event to get a new champion to replace Al Hassan Malik who has been under suspension for misconduct. The event saw the participation of eight fighters: James Majok Gau, Sky Okony, Lolong Peter, John Mawei, Ding Chol, Makeer, and Wizzy Abednego Thon,” he narrated. ”The fight saw elimination of all other fighters in several rounds, with Majok defeating Wizzy to become the MMA Muay Thai national belt champion.”
Okello who doubles as a coach for MMA fighters emphasized the importance of kickboxing in promoting peace and discipline and urged South Sudanese to rally behind the sport.
For his part, Majok Gau, the new champion, said his win was a game-changer.
“This national event was the first such event in a year. 8 of us participated in the fight, and I am thrilled to be crowned as the national title holder,” he said. “This sport is for peace and I urge all citizens to join and support us.”