Host venue Sinbi Boxing Stadium in Rawai was packed to the rafters with seating capacity reaching its limit at 400 and an additional overflow of over 500 enthusiastic fans standing to watch a total of eight bouts at the inaugural event “MSMMA 1.”
The highlight was Luxembourg national Heinz securing an explosive and unanimous decision victory over Phuket-based Scot Judy Humber, who trains at Sinbi Boxing Stadium. The intense contest not only enthralled the audience but also earned the distinction of “Fight of the Night.”
When asked afterwards how it felt to win her title, an ecstatic Heinz replied: “It feels so good! I have never been this proud of myself. I think that what made me win this fight was my experience and the control I had during the fight. My defense was something I focused on.”
She also had thanks for her supporters and priase for the promoters. “I’m so amazed by all the kind messages and love I received. Fighting for M2MMA was awesome. The team was always reachable and helpful before, during and after the fight. I enjoyed fighting for them.”
Another highlight was the electrifying match between Canadian James Clarke and US Marine veteran Colton Kielbasa, which ended with Clarke clinching the victory by unanimous decision.
Both athletes were recognised for their exceptional performances during and shared the Performance of the Night award.
Quality and professionalism
There had been great anticipation in the lead up to the event for athletes and fans worldwide. Festivities actually commenced a week prior to fight night as the M2MMA team embarked on a tour across Phuket to visit the various prestigious gyms where many of the athletes had been training and preparing.
With the build-up coming to a close and the M2MMA ring ready, it was time for the athletes to undergo their weigh-ins, which they all made successfully on the evening prior to fight night. Similarly, all competing athletes passed their hydration tests on the night of the fight, a protocol implemented by M2MMA to further protect its athletes, ensuring a fair and competitive environment for all.
The event was broadcast live and expertly produced by LUI Muay Thai, receiving impressive figures of over 170,000 views across M2MMA social media platforms YouTube and Facebook and generating over 10,000 comments and interactions on Instagram. Overall feedback was also very positive, with many reviewers praising the event’s quality and professionalism
The evening’s proceedings were expertly guided by the internationally acclaimed MC Jon Nutt, who received equally expert support from the commentary booth from Andrew Whitelaw and The Phuket News’ own JP Mestanza.
In addition to the fights, fans were entertained by two live performances in between bouts, offering a distinct and captivating entertainment experience.
“M2MMA 1 is just the beginning,” commented M2MMA’s CEO Victor Lange after the event.
“We are committed to redefining the future of combat sports, and the overwhelming response from our first event is a testament to the bright future ahead.
“We thank our athletes, fans and partners for making M2MMA 1 an unforgettable experience."
M2MMA stated it very much looks forward to building on this momentum with future events combining high-level competition with innovations in athlete safety and fan engagement. Details on the next event will be disclosed in due course, a M2MMA source confirmed.