The renowned WBC Muay Thai Amazing Games World Championships took place from June 25–29 in Bangkok, Thailand, bringing together some of the world’s best Muay Thai athletes. Selected to represent the United States in his weight class was our very own Nico Lingad, who earned his place on Team USA through a series of outstanding performances at MDL tournaments here at home.
Representing your country is an incredible honor. Winning on the world stage is something even fewer athletes ever experience.
Nico’s path to gold was anything but easy.
Drawn into a stacked bracket featuring competitors from England, Thailand, and France, Nico knew every match would demand his very best. With a tall task ahead of him, he opened the tournament against England. Staying composed from the opening bell, Nico battled his way through a hard-fought contest, earning a well-deserved decision victory and advancing to the championship final.
There was little time to celebrate.
As Nico recovered and prepared, he watched the other side of the bracket unfold. Awaiting him in the final was the reigning champion from France, who bulldozed his way through the semifinals with a stunning finish of his opponent. The challenge ahead couldn’t have been any clearer.
Over the next two days, Nico never lost focus. He made weight each day, stayed disciplined in his preparation, and remained mentally locked in on the task ahead. While excitement and nerves filled the Team USA camp as championship day approached, Nico stayed completely unfazed.
When it was finally time to step into the ring, he fought with the composure, heart, and determination that have defined his journey from the very beginning.
For three grueling rounds, Nico battled tooth and nail against one of the best competitors in the world. When the final decision was announced, all of his hard work had paid off.
Gold for Team USA.
Moments like these don’t happen overnight.
Nico has trained with us at Evolve since he was just 8 years old. Over the years, we’ve watched him grow into not only an exceptional martial artist, but an outstanding young man. His discipline, humility, poise, and relentless determination have carried him from a young student on our mats to a World Champion representing his country.
This championship is a tremendous accomplishment, and we know it will be just one of many shining achievements throughout his life.
Congratulations, Nico. Your Evolve family is incredibly proud of you, and we can’t wait to see what comes next.
If you see Nico around the academy, be sure to congratulate him—and make sure you head to class to hear the complete stories from his unforgettable journey in Thailand.