Kathmandu, September 29

The first K Bag Muay Thai Championship is beginning here at the National Sports Council covered hall from Friday.

Around 40 players are expected to take part in the two-day event that features four weight categories in men’s section and one in women’s category, informed Nepal National Muay Thai Association President Ganesh Lal Kakshyapati at a press meet today.

Out of the four weight categories in men’s section, the 65-70kg section in a professional event and the top three players will earn Rs 50,000, Rs 20,000 and Rs 7,500 respectively. In all, 14 players are vying for the title in the professional weight category. “Players from other martial arts such as karate and wushu also can take part in the championship which will be played under Muay Thai rules,” he said.

The other weight categories in the championship — Organised jointly by Nepal National Muay Thai Association and K Bag Sports Pvt Ltd — are 50-55kg, 55-60kg and 60-65kg in men’s section, while the lone event in women’s section is 50-55kg bout. The top three players in these weight categories will earn Rs 10,000, Rs 5,000 and Rs 2,500 respectively.

“The situation of players in martial arts is pathetic as they have to fight for a medal and small amount of money. Now that we are in leadership, we want to change the scenario,” Kakshyapati said. “This is our beginning and we have plans to organise other big tournaments including international events,” he added.