WAKO World Kickboxing Championship Begins Today At ADNEC In Abu Dhabi With Global Participation

Abu Dhabi will host the 2025 WAKO World Kickboxing Championship for Seniors and Masters from 21st to 30th November at ADNEC. The event will gather 2,000 athletes from 150 countries. Organised by the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation with the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations, it highlights Abu Dhabi's role in global combat sports.

International delegations are expected to arrive on 21st and 22nd November. The official opening ceremony is scheduled for 23rd November at 17:00 in ADNEC Hall 1. This ceremony will be accessible to the public, adhering to organisational guidelines.

The championship bouts will occur from 24th to 29th November. They will include disciplines approved by the International Federation such as K1, Low Kick, Full Contact, Point Fighting, Light Contact, Kick Light, and other ring and tatami competitions. Additionally, there will be musical and creative performance categories for Seniors and Masters.

Preliminary and qualifying rounds are set for the initial days of the event. These will be followed by semi-finals, finals, and medal ceremonies specifically for the Masters category. Champions across all divisions will be crowned on 29th November.

The schedule also includes Para Kickboxing events for People of Determination. This inclusion underscores the championship's commitment to diversity and accessibility in sports.

Ali Khouri, Executive Board Member of the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations and Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, expressed enthusiasm about hosting this event. He stated that it strengthens Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub for international combat sports.

"The record number of participants reflects global confidence in the UAE’s organisational capabilities and infrastructure," Khouri noted. He added that hosting this championship builds on the nation’s strong record in staging major international sporting events.

The championship not only enhances Abu Dhabi's appeal to athletes but also attracts fans worldwide. Delegations are scheduled to depart on 30th November after the conclusion of all events.

With inputs from WAM