Muay Thai, the art of eight limbs, is becoming popular across India. Both professionals and amateurs are stepping into the ring, and now the sport is getting a clear structure. Therefore, to support this growth, Golden Mongkhon International (GMI)—India’s leading body for Pro-Amateur and Professional Muay Thai—has started its Affiliation Program for states, clubs, and promoters.
In fact, Karnataka is the first state to join, under the name Karnataka Muay Thai Association (KMTA).
What is the Golden Mongkhon Affiliation Program?
The Affiliation Program is designed to organize and grow Muay Thai in India. In other words, it gives states, clubs, and promoters official approval if they follow GMI’s rules.
The program has four main goals:
- One set of rules: All events will follow the same framework across India.
- Focus on safety: Every event must include certified referees, judges, doctors, and an ambulance.
- Fighter progress: Fighter results will be recorded and counted for rankings.
- Global link: Affiliates connect with the World Muay Thai Federation (WMF), Thailand, giving athletes a chance to compete abroad.
As a result, the sport can grow in a safe, clear, and professional way.
Karnataka: The First State to Join
Karnataka is the first state to gain affiliation. Because of this, the new Karnataka Muay Thai Association will lead the sport in the region.
With this affiliation:
- Fighters can directly enter GMI national championships and WMF world events.
- Coaches and clubs in Karnataka receive official approval and recognition.
- Promoters can host trusted, sanctioned events.
- Athletes get fair and safe opportunities to compete and progress.
In short, Karnataka’s step shows a serious commitment to the sport.
Why This Matters for Muay Thai in India
In the past, combat sports in India often lacked structure. However, this new program changes that completely.
- Firstly, athletes now have a clear path from local fights to international championships.
- Secondly, clubs and gyms can build trust by working under a national body.
- Thirdly, promoters can run safe and approved events.
- Finally, states can create grassroots programs and find new talent.
Therefore, every fight result will matter more. As a result, rankings and performances will all be counted. This means Indian fighters will finally have a fair chance to reach the World Muay Thai Championships in Thailand.
Karnataka’s Role in the Future
Karnataka has already produced fighters who represent India at international events. Now, by becoming the first affiliated state, it is leading the way for others.
The Karnataka Muay Thai Association will:
- Host state-level events.
- Train and certify referees and judges.
- Run fighter camps to prepare athletes.
- Work with clubs and gyms to grow the sport.
Because of this, Karnataka will become a model for other states to follow.
The Road Ahead for Golden Mongkhon
Golden Mongkhon is now inviting other states, clubs, and promoters to join the Affiliation Program. With Karnataka setting the example, the vision is to build a unified Muay Thai network in India.
Future affiliates will benefit in many ways:
- Firstly, they gain official approval under GMI.
- Secondly, they get entry into national and world events.
- Thirdly, they have clear growth paths for fighters, coaches, and officials.
- Finally, they receive the right to host sanctioned events.
Moreover, as more states join, the sport will become stronger and better recognised across the country.
The launch of the Golden Mongkhon Affiliation Program is a turning point for Indian Muay Thai. With Karnataka Muay Thai Association as the first affiliate, the sport now has a clear and safe path for growth.
Golden Mongkhon’s mission is simple: to unite Muay Thai in India and connect it to the world.
To sum up, this is not only good news for fighters but also for coaches, clubs, promoters, and fans. Overall, from local rings to the global stage—the journey has begun.
