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Philippines, 28 May 2026 |
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WBC 63th Annual Convention Opens in Bangkok By Gabriel F. Cordero PhilBoxing.com Tue, 02 Dec 2025  An extraordinary and unique opening ceremony complemented the 63rd WBC Convention and the First Simultaneous WBC Muay Thai Convention at the Marriott Marquis Hotel, Queens Park, Bangkok, all beginning to the beat of drums. The stage featured a shimmering sea of floating silk banners and ornate lattice signs, all choreographed to a giant drum and smaller accompanying drums. The percussionists, wielding thick drumsticks, delivered a performance that pierced, thundered, and rolled in perfect, synchronized rhythm. Less than an hour before the main event, final rehearsals ensured perfection and got the adrenaline pumping. This rhythmic start was followed by a brief performance of Mozart by a string ensemble. WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán commended the assembly for working so hard to make their dreams a reality and urged them to cherish these moments forever. The Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, delivered a speech in which she described her country as the homeland of Muay Thai, dedicated to building integrity and a shared dream. This was followed by a dazzling performance by the Klong Sabet Chai drummers and greetings from Muay Thai stars Liam Harrison and Shannon Gardiner. Iconic champions Oleksandr Usyk and Katie Taylor were invited to the stage. Oleksandr said, “My color is green. Mauricio, thank you for what you do. I love it!” Katie, attending her first WBC Convention, said, “This is the most prestigious belt. Thank you so much for giving us a platform.” The great Roberto Durán modestly expressed his excitement at seeing all the champions, confiding that he had watched many Mexican films as a child, and now there was a film about his own life. WBC Cares and Courage Awards Jill Diamond and Christiane Manzur, founders of WBC Cares (a powerful force that opens doors and transforms lives), gave a memorable presentation. Jill described the event as a "meeting of hearts," stating, "We are born and we die, but we dance in between." Christiane explained that WBC Cares now has twenty-seven chapters worldwide. The courage and courage awards followed: The Bravest Man award was given to Pedro Silva. His daughter, Jesselyn, a bright and promising boxer, battled a brain tumor for three titanic years and sadly passed away in 2024 at just eighteen years old. He praised the WBC for all their support and described his daughter as a true fighter who loved life. The Champion of Hope award went to former boxer Jasilly Musa, who disarmed a knife-wielding man at an airport in Kazakhstan. The Champion of Life award was presented to Joe Gallagher, who overcame stage four bowel and liver cancer. Joe reflected on the difference a year has made since his diagnosis, thanking Mauricio for a WBC bracelet that inspired him and thanking the boxers he trains for their continued support. Presidential Vision and Legacy In his presentation, President Mauricio Sulaimán acknowledged that the organization is going through difficult times, with some people seeking to impose their will through arrogance and abuse of power. He emphasized, “We are the WBC, and we will always be the WBC.” This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Muay Thai Committee and its progress toward global expansion, making this twin convention the perfect launching pad. Two awards recognized exceptional individuals: Salvatore Cherchi was named Man of the Year, and Chuck Williams received the Loyalty Award. Don José Sulaimán's dream, though delayed, has finally come true in Saudi Arabia thanks to the tremendous and visionary support of His Excellency Turki Alalshikh. One hundred and twenty-eight fighters from forty nations are participating, and the Grand Final is scheduled for Riyadh on December 20th. A vital WBC team is promoting narcotics awareness. Rocky Herron, a DEA agent with thirty years of experience and a compassionate heart, leads a drug awareness program for the WBC, having given talks to 287,600 children and saving countless lives in the process. Naseem Hamed and his two sons took to the stage. Naz, who once dazzled the boxing world, received the title of ambassador and emphasized the significance of the green and gold belt. The most moving moment of the morning was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to the Father of Muay Thai, General Kovid Bhkdjbhumi. He and Don José joined forces to build Muay Thai after a solemn promise to the King of Thailand in 2001. His son, Thanapol, who now leads Muay Thai, accepted the award alongside his father, saying, "We are deeply honored to receive this award. There is a great partnership between our two families." Click here to view a list of other articles written by Gabriel F. Cordero.  |
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