The UAE Muay Thai team achieved a remarkable feat at the conclusion of its participation in the Muay Thai World Championship – Malaysia 2026, claiming 6 coloured medals — 3 gold and 3 silver — to top both the Arab and Asian standings and finish fifth in the world.
The achievement underscores the strong presence of UAE Muay Thai in major international arenas and reflects the exceptional technical level displayed by the national team's champions throughout the championship, as well as the fighting spirit and firm determination they showed in hoisting the nation's flag and delivering honourable results.
Shining at the tournament was national team champion Mohammed Mardi, who was crowned Best Player of the Championship – Category A, in addition to winning the gold medal in the 67 kg weight class, an exceptional individual achievement that reflects the advanced standing UAE champions have attained on the international stage.
The team's gold medals were won by: Mohammed Mardi in the 67 kg category, Emad Youssef in the 86 kg category, and Ayoub Al Barnoussi in the 67 kg category. The silver medals were secured by: Mohammed Touizi in the 54 kg category, Yassine Karimi in the 60 kg category, and Salama Al Junaidi in the women's under-24 category above 75 kg, bringing the team's total to 6 coloured medals.
These results reflect the ongoing development of Muay Thai in the United Arab Emirates and the considerable efforts exerted by the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation in preparing national teams, honing athletes' skills, and providing the conditions for success that enhance the UAE's presence on podiums at major continental and world championships.
Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi, Vice President of the International Muay Thai Federation, President of the Asian and Arab Muay Thai federations, and Chairman of the Board of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, said: