Athens – On 27 June 2026, the global combat sports world will witness a historic night as undefeated boxing icon Floyd Mayweather Jr. faces Greek Muaythai and kickboxing legend Mike Zambidis in a spectacular full-contact exhibition showdown at the Telekom Center Athens.

The event is already being described as one of the biggest television spectacles in combat sports history. In a groundbreaking first for global combat sports, the mega event will also feature two official WMC Muaythai World Title fights, marking the first time in history that Muaythai world championship bouts have been showcased on such a major international crossover platform alongside global boxing superstars.
The inclusion of the WMC title bouts highlights the growing worldwide popularity of Muaythai, not only as a combat sport with tremendous spectator appeal, but also as one of the world’s most respected cultural martial arts traditions.

The Athens showcase is expected to attract worldwide attention, combining boxing, kickboxing, and authentic Muaythai under one roof in a celebration of martial arts, sporting excellence, and cultural heritage.

A Historic Milestone for Muaythai and the Kingdom of Thailand

The inclusion of the WMC World Title fights represents a major milestone for both the Kingdom of Thailand and the global Muaythai movement.

The World Muaythai Council merged with the International Federation of Muaythai Associations in 2019 under one unified structure, bringing together professional and international Muaythai governance under Olympic-recognized standards.

Today, IFMA proudly stands as the IOC-recognized world governing body for Muaythai, while the WMC continues its prestigious role under the Royal Patronage of the Kingdom of Thailand, preserving the traditions, culture, and authenticity of the art of Muaythai.

The Athens event therefore represents not only a major sporting spectacle, but also a powerful international promotion for:

  • The Kingdom of Thailand
  • Thai culture and traditions
  • Muaythai as a global cultural treasure
  • The Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship

Clear Distinction Between Boxing and Muaythai

The event also highlights the clear distinction between the various combat sports disciplines.

While the headline exhibition between Mayweather and Zambidis represents a spectacular crossover between boxing, Muaythai, and kickboxing, the WMC title fights will highlight the authenticity of Muaythai under official world championship rules. These bouts will showcase the unique identity of Muaythai as:

  • The Art of Eight Limbs
  • A sport deeply rooted in culture and tradition
  • A complete combat system distinct from boxing and kickboxing
  • A discipline governed under internationally recognized structures

Fans around the world will experience firsthand the beauty of traditional Wai Kru ceremonies, elite Muaythai technique, and the values that have made Muaythai one of the world’s most respected martial arts.

Official Statements

President of the Panhellenic Muaythai Federation and IFMA Executive Board Member, Ioannis Papadopoulos, stated:

“A tremendous amount of hard work has gone into making these two WMC Muaythai World Title fights a reality. Our goal is to showcase all aspects of Muaythai –  its traditions, culture, excitement, and world-class athleticism. This is a great promotion for everyone involved and especially significant as we move toward the IFMA Youth World Championships in Ancient Olympia later this year.”

Sakchye Tapsuwan, President of IFMA and WMC, thanked the promoters and the Panhellenic Muaythai Federation for what he described as a great honor for Muaythai and its athletes:

“This is a proud and historic moment for Muaythai and for the Kingdom of Thailand. Following the merger of WMC and IFMA in 2019 under one unified structure, Muaythai continues to grow globally while preserving its ancient traditions and values under Royal Patronage. To see official WMC World Title fights featured on such a major international platform for the first time in history is truly significant.”

He added:

“This event also clearly demonstrates the distinction between Muaythai and boxing. Muaythai is a unique martial art and cultural heritage with its own traditions, techniques, governance, and identity. Athens will witness the very best of both worlds.”

Organizers believe the Athens mega event will set a new benchmark for crossover combat sports entertainment while fully respecting the identity, integrity, and traditions of each discipline.

The Athens event is already being described as one of the most unique and ambitious combat sports showcases ever staged in Europe.