Thai judges to officiate Sukma muaythai finals

BINTULU (Aug 19): The highly anticipated final matches of combat muaythai at the Sukma XXI 2024 is set to take place tomorrow, promising an electrifying showdown.

Adding to the excitement, the matches will be judged by five distinguished judges from Thailand, bringing an extra layer of authenticity and expertise to the event.

The presence of the Thai judges underscores the event’s commitment to maintaining high standards and honouring the rich traditions of muaythai.

According to the Malaysia Muaythai Association (PMM), 10 neutral judges from Thailand, led by Ajarn Thavorn and Ajarn Sawaeng, along with senior International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) judge Ajarn Ryan from the United Kingdom, have been appointed as the official judges for the muaythai events at the Sukma XXI 2024 held at Naim Bintulu Paragon Street Mall.

PMM in Facebook (Muaythai Malaysia) post stated that preliminary rounds up to the semi-finals featured five judges per ring, including three experienced judges from Thailand.

“For the final matches, which will be conducted in a single ring, all five judges will be from Thailand.

“These judges are affiliated with the Amateur Muaythai Association of Thailand (AMTAT) and major Muaythai stadiums in Thailand,” it said.

To ensure accurate scoring, at least three out of five judges must simultaneously press the scoring button for a point to be awarded.

Points that are clear and impactful, often accompanied by a loud sound, typically garner scores from all five judges.

The scoreboard will display which judges pressed the button, with their names visible on the large screen for each bout.

“A comprehensive briefing on the scoring system, including the impact and technique strength required for points, was provided to all coaches and team managers during the Sukma meeting,” said PMM.

The waikru and mai muay art events will be judged based on mandatory movements such as starting postures, prom nang, prom yuen, finishing, and joining techniques.

A minimum number of movements must be performed. All judges and juries for these events are from neutral teams in Thailand.

The finals for waikru and mai muay event will take place today followed by the muaythai combat finals tomorrow.