Belle Isle’s Matty Sylvester did a little Thai boxing or Muay Thai early in 2023 and then flew out to Thailand that summer. He’s now built an impressive record of fight wins culminating in a silver medal at 81kg in the WMF World Championship tournament in Bangkok.
“I’d always admired Muay Thai,” said Matty, who turns 22 in August. “Clint Robinson, a family friend, encouraged me to get involved. I did a bit of training here then sold a few valued personal possessions and went to Thailand to train with world champion Jordan Watson at his gym, Evolution, in Koh Samui. Jordan’s also from Leeds and started training aged six at Bad Company when it was on York Road. Apart from a few months in Leeds last year when I trained with MSA gym in Beeston, I’ve been in Thailand ever since with no immediate plans to come home. I’m grateful to Clint for challenging me to achieve my ambition.
“The sport can be dangerous. It’s a full contact martial art that uses the fists, elbows, knees and feet to strike an opponent. There’s little protection for professional fighters other than mouth guards, a groin cup and your gloves, typically 10oz or just 8oz. Elbows can cause serious damage. That’s what makes it exciting and exhilarating.”
Former Rodillian Academy pupil Sylvester admitted to “being nervous going to Thailand by myself and committing to a rigorous five days a week training at a retreat camp. I stuck at it and soon had my first bout winning by knockout. I’ve now won ten of my eleven professional fights including eight by knockout. Some bouts were with westerners but others with Thais. The highlight was winning the silver medal representing MSA in the international competition having watched MSA teammate Gracjan Krupski win gold and knowing my parents were in the audience. I was elated they were there to see how well I did.”
Sylvester is uncertain about the future. “I’m unsure how long I’ll be able to stay but I’m looking forward to an opportunity to fight at the prestigious Rajadamnern Stadium and showcase my skills in front of a demanding audience. I’m basically earning my living through Muay Thai, but I’m totally dedicated and grateful for all the support. Maybe my story could inspire other young people in Leeds. My next challenge is harder, learning to get by in Thai.”
MSA can be contacted on Instagram @msa_leeds or e-mail raf86msa@gmail.com. MSA is located in Sugar Mills Business Park, LS11 7HL.
This post was written by James Bovington
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