Afghanistan wins first gold at Asian Muay Thai Championship

KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — Afghanistan has secured its first-ever gold medal at the Asian Muay Thai Championship, with national fighter Sayed Rohullah Mousawi defeating a top contender from Thailand in the 60 kg final.

The historic win came at the 2025 IFMA Asian Championship in Vietnam, where Mousawi overcame intense pressure to clinch gold — a rare achievement that places Afghanistan on the regional combat sports map.

Mousawi, the country’s Muay Thai national champion, credited the victory to his rigorous training and physical conditioning. In post-match remarks, he dedicated the medal to the people of Afghanistan, calling it a symbol of national resilience in difficult times.

His triumph adds to an impressive international record, including a silver medal at the 2023 IFMA Senior World Championship and a bronze in 2022. Mousawi’s rise began with a bronze at the 2016 IFMA Youth World Championship, reflecting years of consistency at the global level.

The Vietnam-hosted tournament brought together athletes from 40 nations, offering one of Asia’s toughest platforms for combat sports. Mousawi’s victory over a Thai opponent — from the birthplace of Muay Thai — highlights his skill and determination under pressure.

As Afghanistan grapples with economic hardship and international isolation, achievements like Mousawi’s offer a rare moment of pride. His gold medal stands not just as a personal milestone, but as a reminder of the country’s untapped athletic potential.