Thai Fight: Muay Thai — Where Thai Tradition Meets the World

Another highlight of the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank Group was Thai Fight, which brought Muay Thai, Thailand’s iconic martial art and a powerful expression of Thai soft power, closer to leaders and participants from more than 191 countries.

Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Thailand; Mr. Vitai Ratanakorn, Governor of the Bank of Thailand; Mr. Lavaron Sangsnit, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance; together with Dr. Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and Mr. Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, attended the event. The programme featured two traditional rope-bound Muay Thai bouts, showcasing both male and female fighters, a Wai Kru ritual, demonstrations of Muay Thai techniques, and an introductory Muay Thai session led by renowned Thai boxer, where meeting participants had the opportunity to step into the ring and try the techniques themselves.

The event brought excitement and entertainment, offering a refreshing change of pace from high-level global economic and financial discussions. It also provided an opportunity to experience the charm of Muay Thai—a martial art that embodies Thailand’s rich culture, distinctive identity, and enduring spirit.