Muay Thai Makes History: Ancient Verona Arena Ignites with Global Spirit at WBC Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2025 Opening Ceremony

Isabella Gilbert

The global WBC and muay thai communities turned their attention to Italy last night as the WBC Amazing Muay Thai Festival 2025 commenced with a stunning Opening Ceremony in Verona’s iconic Arena. This highly anticipated event signaled the beginning of five very special days celebrating the sport and culture of muay on an international stage.

The ancient stones of Verona’s 2000-year-old open-air theatre, usually echoing with opera and classical drama, vibrated with an entirely different kind of energy. The historic arena was utterly transformed into a vibrant spectacle, drawing an astounding over 2700 attendees from 72 countries. The atmosphere was electric, a palpable hum of anticipation and excitement filling every tier of the colossal structure.

As the sun set, the arena was filled with an immense sense of occasion. More than just an opening ceremony, it transcended into a profound moment, effortlessly connecting past and present.

Last night represented a symbolic torch, passed from the arena’s ancient gladiators to its modern warriors. From every corner of the globe, muay thai fighters stood where champions once fought over a thousand years ago, embodying a powerful continuity of combat sports.

This extraordinary event vividly encompassed the rich cultures of both Thailand and Italy, standing as a magnificent testament to international camaraderie. This cooperation between Thai and Italian officials had blossomed over a year of dedicated effort, finally realising the dream of hosting a global muay thai festival within the iconic city of Verona.

As Italian Parliamentary Deputy Ciro Maschio emphasised, this collaboration served as “proof of our friendship with an ancient tradition and with eyes to the future.”

This ceremony underscored that muay thai is far more than just a martial art; it is a deep and profound cultural expression. Khun Pimol Srivikorn, Chairman of the Thailand National Olympic Committee described it as a “culture that has been passed down generations, it tells a story of resilience, heart and honour.”

Such remarkable global synergy aligns perfectly with the overarching ethos of the World Boxing Council. As WBC MuayThai President Major General Thanapol Bhakdibhumi firmly believes that “WBC is not just sport, it is also solidarity.” This principle transcends the ring, promoting unity and understanding among diverse nations through the shared language of sport.

By bringing together participants and spectators from 72 countries in a spirit of mutual respect and admiration, the festival exemplified the WBC’s commitment to building bridges and fostering a global community bound by shared values. It’s a testament to how competition can inspire connection, and how athletic prowess can serve a greater purpose of human solidarity.

The arena, now filled with fervent supporters, thundered with a unified chant of “muay thai!” that echoed off its ancient walls. As the evening’s host noted, “This stadium has heard many cheers, but never one like that.” This encapsulated the evening’s essence: a vibrant fusion of old and new, profound tradition meeting dynamic evolution.

Tonight, in the very heart of Verona, this potent spirit of unity, rich cultural exchange, and shared passion for Muay Thai shone brighter than ever, promising a lasting legacy for years to come.