A Middleton schoolboy is one of three local Thai boxers who’ve returned as medal winners from an international Muay Thai championship in Bangkok. Fabian Monit, 16, and veteran fighter Pyotr Janusz, 47, won gold in their respective categories with Kamil Fornalski, 25, taking silver. All three train at Beeston’s Master Sken Academy (MSA) under Rafal Wrzeszcz.
“This was my first time in Thailand,” said Fabian. “I’ve been training at MSA for two years and there I was at an international tournament in the country that that’s the cradle of our sport. As it worked out, we all represented Team England but in my second bout where I won the gold, I was representing Team Poland. My family’s from Poland and I’m bilingual in Polish. I lost my first fight against a French fighter my age but then found myself in the final at a lower 54kg weight against a Japanese fighter four years my senior. Dropping weight was easy in the Bangkok heat.”
“Although we both wore more body and head protection than I normally do, I was allowed to use my elbows,” explained Oulton Academy student Fabian. “What’s great about Muay Thai compared to regular boxing is you can punch but also kick and use your knees and elbows to defeat your opponent. The full panoply, apparently. Just couldn’t use knees to the head. Using elbows also makes a fight more intense. You must be constantly aware. Muay Thai’s brutal and violent but both all fighters in the ring love it. I was proud of my performance especially when I landed a powerful high head kick which I know hurt him along with a few big knee body shots. I was aggressive throughout. My opponent had good boxing skills. I took a few hard head shots and got my badge of honour with my first nosebleed. I also enjoyed making friends with fighters from around the world. I met boys from China, India, Kazakhstan, Brazil, Taiwan, and lots from Australia and New Zealand.”
“I’d always wanted to fight. Combat sports were all that interested me. I started at this gym just as I turned 14 early in 2024. I’ve had nine amateur bouts and won six. I’m at the gym for five weekly sessions. I’m excited at the thrill of being in a fight, all those people cheering you on to see you prove how skilful and tough you are. Winning bouts has boosted my confidence. I’d love eventually to compete in the ONE championship at Lumpini Stadium Bangkok. That’s the pinnacle. Leeds fighter Fergus Smith achieved a knockout there. I want to compete as a professional and eventually have my own gym. I’d urge anyone my age to try combat sports. Prove what you’re made of.”
“This was our second time in Bangkok for the World Muay Thai Federation championships,” said coach Wrzeszcz. “We’re proud and delighted with our fighters’ achievements. Fabian particularly impressed and he’s wanted back for further training in Bangkok.”
Fabian returns to train at Bangkok’s PK Senchai gym over the summer. As a year 11 pupil at Oulton Academy, Fabian is concentrating on imminent GCSEs. In September he starts a college course in PE and sports psychology.
Thai boxing is self-funded. Fabian is presently sponsored just by his dad’s firm. If interested in training at MSA or potentially offering Fabian sponsorship text 07963 599436 or via Instagram @msa_leeds. MSA Leeds is at Sugar Mills Business Park LS11 7HL.
This post was written by James Bovington
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