Sri Lanka — [30th May – 1st June 2026]
The World Muaythai Organization (WMO) has marked a historic milestone with the successful staging of its first Asian WMO Championships, held in Sri Lanka as part of the ITMA Asian Games.
The landmark championship took place at the Goldi Sands Hotel in Negombo, set against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean, providing a spectacular setting for this historic occasion.
The event brought together athletes, officials, coaches and martial arts representatives for a celebration of Muay Thai and Muay Boran, creating an important new platform for the development and recognition of WMO-sanctioned sport across Asia.
The championships featured competitions in Muay Boran, UBF and Pro-Am divisions, alongside additional categories, with a strong field of athletes taking part. A total of six referees were appointed to officiate the competition, helping ensure the event was conducted to a professional standard.
The organisers also demonstrated a strong commitment to the athletes by accommodating additional bouts where necessary, allowing fighters who otherwise had no suitable opponents to compete. This ensured that as many athletes as possible were able to participate and experience the championship environment.
A Milestone for WMO in Asia
The successful event represents an important step forward for the World Muaythai Organization and its continued development throughout Asia.
The championship was organised with the long-term goal of strengthening WMO’s presence and recognition in Sri Lanka, while establishing relationships with national sporting authorities, military institutions, local clubs and other key stakeholders.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the regional Gulf conflict in the lead-up to the event, which prevented the planned pre-event international media and sponsorship campaign from taking place, the organisers remained committed to delivering the championship.
The event was therefore organised without major external sponsorship, with some expenses personally covered by the local organisers to ensure that the championship could proceed successfully.
That commitment has already produced significant results.
Strong Media Coverage and Institutional Support
Although the pre-event promotional campaign was limited, media coverage during and after the championships was excellent, generating valuable exposure for WMO and its activities in Sri Lanka.
The event also attracted the attention and support of important national institutions. The Minister of Sport and a Major General of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces were personally invited to attend, helping establish valuable relationships and creating a strong foundation for future cooperation.
The organisers have also received interest from several local Muay Thai and martial arts clubs wishing to participate in future WMO events.
The positive response from sporting authorities, the Royal Thai Embassy, the Sri Lankan Armed Forces and other institutions demonstrates the growing potential for Muay Thai and Muay Boran development in Sri Lanka.
Special Appreciation to WMO Sri Lanka
The success of this historic first Asian WMO Championship would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of the WMO Sri Lanka team.
Special thanks and appreciation go to Mr. Dushantha Perera, President of WMO Sri Lanka, for serving as our host and for his outstanding efforts in organising and promoting this landmark championship.
His commitment to developing WMO in Sri Lanka, building relationships with national institutions and bringing together the local Muay Thai community has played an important role in establishing a strong foundation for the organisation’s future in the country.
WMO extends its sincere gratitude to Mr. Dushantha Perera and the entire WMO Sri Lanka team for their hospitality, hard work and dedication to making this historic event a success.
Looking Towards the Future
Following the success of the first Asian WMO Championships, further meetings will be held with the Ministry of Sport, Royal Thai Embassy, Sri Lankan sporting clubs and other supporters to discuss the next stage of development.
These discussions will focus on expanding WMO activities in Sri Lanka, increasing participation from local and international athletes, developing stronger institutional partnerships and attracting sponsors for future championships.
The organisers believe that the excellent media exposure generated by the inaugural event will provide a strong foundation for attracting greater sponsorship and support for future WMO championships.
The first Asian WMO Championships in Sri Lanka have therefore not only created a historic moment, but also opened the door to a new chapter for Muay Thai and Muay Boran in Asia.
History has been made – and this is only the beginning.
World Muaythai Organization (WMO)
ITMA Asian Games — Sri Lanka
