SANDEE JUNIOR RANKINGS, PROGRESSION, PATHWAYS & OPPORTUNITIES

Grassroots Muay Thai has always been a key focus for us. For over a decade, we have organised Intercontinental and Novice Opens, which many consider the pinnacle of junior competition in the UK.

We are now committed to expanding opportunities by utilising newly established pathways, providing access to the best global openings.

WMF THAILAND

At the recent WMF World Championships in Thailand, our Sandee Fight Series International Team consisted of 37 juniors and 14 adults. Over the next 12 months, we will also participate in other WMF events in India, Armenia, and Italy. In 2026, we anticipate a significant increase in numbers as Ireland will also be attending WMF events under their own banner.

Furthermore, we are planning a special fight weekend at Lumpini Stadium, where WMF titles will be up for grabs.

We are also pleased to announce that our very own Peter Spensley has been appointed to the executive committee of the WMF in Thailand, with a focus on expanding junior development globally. Board members have attended our events in the UK and are using our own Sandee junior blueprint as a model.

*Pete Spensley joins the WMF Executive board

And the good news doesn't end there - Sandee will fund 4 places at the March 2026 WMF World Championships tournament in Bangkok, Thailand.  A ground-breaking move showing our commitment to UK Muay Thai and the sport in general.  A criteria will be expected and details shall be released soon

RANKINGS

Turning to our Open events, we are focused on creating a structured ranking system. The Sandee Open typically features 110 categories, with each winner receiving a championship belt and podium place medals. The top finalists in each category will be ranked by age and weight.

Following the Open events, ranked fighters will have the opportunity to defend their positions at any Sandee Fight Series or affiliate shows. Up for grabs will be a newly commissioned Gold Championship Belt, which signifies the number-one spot for our international events. This belt can be defended as often as necessary, with the most successful fighter receiving an exclusive Sandee care package.

*Sandee / WMF Gold Championship Belt

This ranking system will naturally help select our team, though we will continue to honour previous podium finishers from WMF events.

EDUCATION

After extensive discussions at the World Finals in Thailand, a clear pathway is now available to all junior fighters in the UK. This includes a unique University curriculum, offering an accreditation in Muay Thai. This program is exclusive to the WMF and involves eight universities in Thailand.

*Signing Documents for Muay Thai curriculum

OPPORTUNITY

Additionally, we are exploring opportunities for placements and sponsorships that allow participants to live and train in a Sandee gym setting, in Thailand.

*UK Fight Team at Sandee Keathamptorn Gym, Thailand

For talented, dedicated fighters who are passionate about Muay Thai, these pathways and opportunities are in place.

All of these exciting developments will begin at the Sandee Intercontinental Open on April 12th.