South Sudan has made history by winning the sixth edition of the World Muay Thai Championship, held in Pattaya, Thailand, from 4 to 17 March.
Two elite South Sudanese fighters, James Majok Gau and Stephen Okony, known as “Sky,” secured gold medals, marking a significant achievement for the world’s youngest nation. A third team member, Abednego Thon, or “Wizzy,” claimed a bronze medal after exiting in the first round.
The championship featured competitors from 15 countries, including Algeria, Russia, the Netherlands, Canada, Italy, France, Iran, Brazil, and hosts Thailand.
Sky, making his international debut, defeated the Philippines’ Mark John Lloyd in the middleweight category, while the more experienced Majok overcame a tough challenge from Iran’s Mehdi Gholizadeh.
Puro Okello Obob, President of the South Sudan Kickboxing Federation and head coach, described the victory as a historic moment for the country.
“Having Majok and Sky win shows our resilience and determination. As a country, we are proud,” he told Radio Tamazuj on Sunday.
Both Sky and Majok expressed their pride in representing South Sudan, which was competing in the tournament for the first time.
Muay Thai, often referred to as the “Art of Eight Limbs” due to its use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins, has grown in popularity in South Sudan in recent years.
Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has been working to establish itself in various sports, including martial arts. The World Muay Thai Championship, which attracts top fighters globally, is seen as a platform to showcase the country’s talent and competitive spirit.