By Manas James Okony and Kei Emmanuel
South Sudanese kickboxers have made history at the ongoing World Muay Thai Championship in Pattaya, Thailand, for achieving significant success.
The country’s top two fighters advanced to the semi-finals and finals stages of the tournament.
The international event kicked off on March 4 and will continue until March 18.
Participating countries include Algeria, Russia, The Netherlands, Canada, Italy, France, Iran, Brazil, Latvia, the Philippines, Spain, Thailand, Myanmar, India, and China, among others.
South Sudan is represented by Abednego Thon (Wizzy), Sky Okony, and James Majok Gau. Okony has reached the final stage after winning two fights, while Majok advanced to the semi-finals after a decisive victory over his Italian opponent, Alberto Grimaldi, on Tuesday.
Puro Okello Obob, president of the South Sudan Kickboxing Federation (SSKF), described the team’s performance in Thailand as electrifying.
“Our fighters are making remarkable progress: Sky Okony is already in the finals, with just one fight standing between him and the Black Belt (gold medal). Meanwhile, Majok is moving forward in the semi-finals; one more fight will either take him to the finals or secure him a silver medal,” he explained. “Wizzy had an earlier exit in the first rounds, but he will return home with a bronze medal.”
Puro, who also serves as the federation’s head coach, hailed his team’s accomplishments as a pivotal moment for South Sudan’s presence in the sport.
“We take pride in being leaders in martial arts within Africa. Our fighters will return home on March 18 with medals. This achievement is establishing our country as a notable force in sportsmanship, which can help foster peace,” he added. “Our success is attracting international attention; I am excited to announce that we have already drawn interest from some Chinese promoters.”
Fighter Sky Okony expressed optimism for his upcoming bouts.
“Draws are being made today to determine the dates and opponents for our next fights. I’m hopeful about what lies ahead,” he stated.
Steven Okony, competing in the 64-65kg category, advanced to the finals after his Filipino opponent withdrew. Okony will face an Indian fighter in his next round.
Abednego Thon, who did not reach the finals, secured a bronze medal despite a setback against his Iranian opponent.
The Kickboxing Federation president noted that, except for James Majok Gau, who has competed in Kenya, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan championships, the other three athletes were making their international debuts.
“The competition is tough, but our athletes performed exceptionally well,” Okello said. “Abednego, for instance, was on track to win until he was stunned during his fight. I cannot fault him. This performance has surprised the world. Our athletes’ height was a significant advantage. Overall, it was a valuable experience for our fighters.”
The World Muay Thai Championship is a prestigious international competition that showcases elite fighters from around the globe and highlights the sport’s rich traditions and competitive spirit. Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has been striving to make its mark in various sports, including martial arts.
Muay Thai, often referred to as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” incorporates striking techniques utilizing fists, elbows, knees, and shins, which have gained popularity in South Sudan over the years.
The SSKF’s efforts not only promote athleticism and competition but also aim to foster a sense of community and national pride among South Sudanese citizens