Ancient Verona Arena Embraces Modern MuayThai: A Historic Milestone for WBC

After years of meticulous planning, aspirations and relentless effort, the WBC MuayThai family witnessed a momentous occasion: the inauguration of the Amazing MuayThai Festival at the historic Arena di Verona. This ancient venue, now a beacon in the modern era, played host to a truly historic event.

Today, we can proudly declare this vision a reality, marking a new phase for a sport that is now more established than ever. Everyone who contributed to this achievement lives by the powerful maxim: “What we do in Life Echoes in Eternity.” It’s challenging to articulate the profound significance of this event for both the WBC and WBC MuayThai. The sheer fact that the opening ceremony took place in one of the most emblematic modern monuments represents a monumental milestone for the sport.

Centuries converged for this moment, where, once again—and with appropriate reverence—a combat sport united thousands of individuals with the same timeless purpose: to achieve greatness and forge history. The Arena di Verona was awash with color, representing the uniforms of over 20 nations. In total, 2,700 people gathered to hear the opening bell of what promises to be an iconic project for the WBC and WBC MuayThai.

Here’s what transpired during the initial opening conference:

Mauricio Sulaimán – WBC President

“I am incredibly proud of all the gyms, all the enthusiasts, and the parents who provide unwavering support, enabling all athletes to compete for glory. What you achieve in the upcoming competition days will lay the foundation for your legacy. MuayThai is a legendary discipline, and I know you will all represent your countries with immense pride and passion. We honor the great General Kovid Bhakdibhumi, WBC Vice President, who made a solemn promise to the King of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadej, to nurture, develop, and spread Muay Thai globally… Now that promise has been fulfilled.”

Mr. Paulo Dionisi – Italian Ambassador to Thailand

“This event’s success marks a dream come true. Now, it’s the contestants’ turn to make history. We all understand that MuayThai is more than just a sport; it’s a philosophy. Be proud to be a part of this discipline. Enjoy Verona.”

Khun Ssorawong – Thailand Minister of Sports and Tourism

“It is our immense pride to present our national discipline here in Verona. This sport is deeply rooted in our society and culture. Sports have the power to inspire and build bridges between nations. Long live friendship, long live MuayThai, long live Thailand!”

Khun Pimol – Thailand National Olympic Committee Chairman

“We are gathered here over these days because of our shared love for this sport—a sport that has transcended generations.”

Flavio Pasini – President of Verona Province

“It is a great honor to share this moment with you. I am here in my city, Verona, in one of the most amazing theaters. We once dreamed of strengthening the relationship between Italy and Thailand, and now that dream is a reality.”

Major General Thanapol Bhakdibhumi – WBC MuayThai President

“Welcome to the opening ceremony of the Amazing Muay Thai Festival! I want to show the world the energy and discipline of MuayThai. We are incredibly proud to present our sport and its inherent values to you. Discipline and the spirit of MuayThai will be central to this amazing journey, and we are confident that all participants will bring pride to both the sport and Thailand.”

Giuliano Occhipinti – Local Host Chairman

“The emotion I feel at this moment is indescribable. I thank everyone who made efforts to be here today. This all began here two years ago, from an idea, and today we have made it possible. Thank you for the tremendous opportunity we have received. We are experiencing a truly great event.”