By Ajah Jennifer

South Sudanese kick boxer, James Majok Gau has advanced to the semi finals of the 2025 World Muay Thai Championship in Pattaya, Thailand after beating Italian opponent Alberto Grimando in the knockout rounds of mixed martial arts.

The championship that has been running from March 9 to 17, 2025, had brought together 72 elite fighters from 18 countries, with South Sudan being only African nation represented in the prestigious event. The South Sudanese team, consisting of four kickboxers and their coach travelled to Thailand. The country’s fighters—James Majok Gau, Abednego Thon also known as Wizzy, and Sky Okony—have been battling it out in intense elimination rounds.

The journey kicked off with a weigh-in,followed by action-packed qualification rounds. James Majok Gau’s advancement to the second round marks a significant achievement.

With the finals nearing, all eyes are on Majok Gau and team South Sudan as they fight to bring home glory.

Majok was placed in a group of 8 champions in the 75 kg category, while the rest of his team Wizzy and Sky competed in the 69 kg category.

He said he had done his best to defeat the Italian champion to reach the semi-finals.

Majok promised to win the competition, adding that he wants to bring victory for the people of South Sudan.

He noted his colleague Wizzy, saying he had given a strong performance despite losing to the Romanian champion. Meanwhile, Sky Okony awaits his opponent in an upcoming match, the winner of which will face him in the final.

The tournament has attracted athletes and spectators from around the world to promote Muay Thai and reinforce Pattaya’s position as a hub for sports and tourism.

The event also features SKS Empire, Rage Fight Academy, and The Pattaya News, along with many others, as proud sponsors and supporters.