Abu Dhabi Welcomes Global Athletes For WAKO World Kickboxing Championship Finals

The World Association of Kickboxing Organisations (WAKO) World Kickboxing Championship for Seniors and Masters is set to commence tomorrow at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. This event, organised by the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, will feature 2,000 athletes from 150 countries competing over two days.

Developmental workshops have been a key feature throughout the championship, which continues until 30th November. These sessions are designed for coaches, referees, players, and administrators to foster knowledge exchange among international schools. Daily referee meetings aim to uphold integrity and professionalism in the sport.

The International Federation's General Assembly meeting highlighted Abu Dhabi's outstanding organisational efforts. Attended by national federation presidents from various continents, the assembly praised the UAE's leadership in promoting kickboxing in the Middle East and Asia. This edition is notable for being the first held outside Europe and has achieved record participation.

Roy Baker, President of WAKO, emphasised that this UAE edition is the largest in the championship’s history. He attributed this success to the strong collaboration between the International Federation and the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, led by Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi. Their partnership supports athletes and advances kickboxing globally.

The General Assembly also approved WAKO’s new media identity, aligning with the International Olympic Committee's vision. Additionally, it endorsed reinstating the WAKO Pro League on the international calendar, marking a significant step forward for professional kickboxing events worldwide.

Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi holds multiple leadership roles: Vice President of the International Muay Thai Federation, President of both Asian and Arab Muay Thai Federations, and President of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation. He attended quarter-final matches and engaged with WAKO President Roy Baker as well as leaders from national federations and international delegations.

This championship not only showcases athletic talent but also strengthens global ties within kickboxing communities. The event underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to hosting world-class sporting events while fostering growth in martial arts across regions.

With inputs from WAM