2021 USMTO West Recap

This past weekend the good people at the United States Muaythai Open had their yearly tournament in Arizona at the Sheraton Hotel in Phoenix. After a long hiatus, due to the devastating pandemic, The USMTO had a year long break and athletes have been eager to compete. 

Gyms from all over the United States flew in to compete ranging from New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, Northern and Southern California, Colorado, Boston, and many more. USMF representatives Vinny Scotto,Charlie Cottone, Sean Madden, Danny Brandt, and Azia Nabih were in attendance.  Former medalists, turned coach David Huerta, Gaston Bolnaos, and Travis Clay had teams competing in this event. With over 500 registered athletes, the USMTO was packed with exciting fights during this two day event. 

With Covid-19 Protocols, The event ran differently than their past events. Athletes’ Weigh-ins were done by appointment, with a required negative Covid-19 test that must have been completed 48 hour prior to the weigh-ins. The first day ran through close to 150 matchups spread across three rings. Athletes with deep brackets competed twice in one day. Those that had down time between matchups had the opportunity to connect with popular Muaythai brands such as Combat Corner, Muay Thai Addict, Authentic Muay Thai Supply and Impact MouthGuards. 

On the second day of the event ran on time. A few divisions had two matchups on the same day. As we approached the finals, athletes were bruised up from hard fights but put on a great show for the fans and spectators. Many of the final match ups were exciting and a lot of the athletes displayed great sportsmanship and Muaythai skills. 

At the end of the day, champions were crowned and experience was gained to help further our sport. Everyone from Juniors to Adults competed in a sport we truly missed during the pandemic. No show runs perfect. During a time in transition from a pandemic we are all still learning to adapt to new ways and trying to find solutions to problems we have never experienced before. The USMF would like to commend the USMTO for throwing a successful event for our Muaythai community.