Written by Aray Till
The USA Muaythai Youth Team has returned from the 2023 IFMA Youth World Championship in Turkey with heads held high and a remarkable medal tally, proving their prowess on the world stage. The championship, featuring 77 countries, 160 divisions, 917 bouts, and 1078 athletes, was a true test of skill and determination.
In a fiercely competitive tournament, the USA brought a contingent of 25 athletes, led by Team Manager Desiree Brandt, Head Coaches Danny Brandt from Dan’s Gym and Aziz Nabih from Sitan NY. Assisting them were Lead Coaches Ricardo Perez from Team Toro, Sonny Ross from Prime Muay Thai, and Charlie Cottone from 8 Limbs Muay Thai. A team effort was also ensured with the presence of Assistant Coaches Steven Chao from Omni Movement, Firdavs Nabiev from NYC Fitness, and Leo Perucci from Forza Combat Sports.
What makes this journey to Turkey truly memorable is the USA’s spectacular performance in the medal standings, securing the fifth position. The team took home an impressive haul of five gold, three silver, and seven bronze medals, underscoring the strength and depth of American youth muaythai.
The gold medalists were Zach Zelinsky (12-13, 46kg out of NYC Fitness), Neil Zelinsky (14-15, 57kg out of NYC Fitness), Vivianne Morales (16-17, 63.5kg out of North Florida Muay Thai), Fayozbek Hasanov (10-11, 32kg out of Team Zarif), and Antoño Gonzalez (10-11, 54kg out of Dan’s Gym). These young athletes displayed unwavering dedication and skill, standing atop the podium as world champions. The elder Zelensky brother, Neil, was also awarded as the Most Outstanding Male Athlete Over 14.
Adding to the glory, the silver medalists included Tristan Ward (12-13, 36kg out of Sitan NY), Jorge Caraveo (10-11, 30kg out of Dan’s Gym), and Jocelin Suarez (10-11, 32kg out of Heritage Muay Thai). Their remarkable performances earned them well-deserved recognition on the international stage.
The USA Muaythai team’s depth was further highlighted by the bronze medalists: Zoyirjon Zokirjonov (12-13, 42kg out of Team Zarif), Ayden Cruz (10-11, 48kg out of Dan’s Gym), Teddy Mandala (U23, 48kg out of Team Toro), Jessica Martinez (10-11, 30kg out of Maisonets), David Fischer (U23, 57kg out of Dan’s Gym), Andrew Ventura (10-11, 44kg out of Rami Elite), and Addisyn Ramirez (10-11, 40kg out of Heritage Muay Thai). These young talents displayed exemplary skill, determination, and sportsmanship, earning their spots on the podium.
USA Muaythai President Michael Corley expressed his excitement for the youth’s success, stating, “Our young athletes have demonstrated outstanding skill and determination at the IFMA Youth World Championship. Their achievements showcase the bright future of Muaythai in America and the incredible talent we have in our youth. Congratulations to our athletes, coaches, and the entire USA Muaythai team for this remarkable achievement.”
With this exceptional showing, the USA Muaythai Youth Team has solidified its presence as a formidable force in the world of Muaythai. The future of the sport in America is undoubtedly promising, and the team’s achievements at the 2023 IFMA Youth World Championship serve as a testament to the dedication and commitment of these young athletes.