IT may have just been showcased as a demonstration sport, but it was the real deal for national muay thai exponent Rifdean Masdor (pic) at the Olympics.
Although he was not fighting for a medal, the youngster savoured every moment as he got the chance to be in a muay thai ring in Paris .
“To me, there is no difference between a demonstration sport or the real thing, I am proud. I still got to feel the Olympics atmosphere,” said the 21-year-old.
Rifdean, who won his second straight win at the ONE Championship last month in Bangkok, Thailand, said that if the sport was to be included in the Olympics, he would go all out to bring home a medal for Malaysia.
“I hope to be able to represent Malaysia in muay thai at the Olympics one day.
“If it is really included, I will surely do my best. This is a burning drive for me, my team, and my family,” he said.
A specially built muay thai venue at Club France saw 24 athletes from around the world take part in the showcase event on Monday and Tuesday.
Meanwhile, national muay thai coach Bernard Radin said the age-old sport should be included in the Olympics.
“There is a good chance for it to happen. We have to show that muay thai is more than just a combat sport.
“It has traditional values and is a thousand-year-old sport. If it is included, I am confident that we can deliver a gold medal for Malaysia,” he said.
