Sunday, September 24, 2023: In an electrifying showdown that unfolded on the grand stage of the Diamond League MuayThai promotion in Marinha Grande, Portugal, the talented fighter hailing from Spain, Simon Mendes, etched his name in the annals of the WBC MuayThai history books. The night was charged with anticipation as Mendes squared off against the local hero and fan favorite, Yuri Ceita, for the highly coveted WBC MuayThai Mediterranean cruiserweight championship.

As the crowd roared with excitement, it was evident that this clash of titans was going to be a memorable one. The atmosphere was electric, a symphony of cheers and applause reverberating through the arena, as these two warriors prepared to test their mettle in the ring.

From the opening bell, it was clear that Mendes had come prepared, not just physically but also strategically. His training and preparation had honed his skills to a razor-sharp edge, and this was immediately evident as he showcased his prowess in the art of Muay Thai.

The first round of the fight played host to a breathtaking moment that will be etched in the memories of fight fans for years to come. Mendes, showing incredible timing and precision, unleashed a devastating head kick that found its mark on Ceita’s temple. Then, followed a second kick.The thud of the impact resonated throughout the arena, and in an instant, the local favorite crumbled to the canvas.

The referee swiftly moved in, his count marking the inevitable conclusion of the contest. It was a first-round knockout victory, an astonishing feat that crowned Simon Mendes as the new WBC MuayThai Mediterranean cruiserweight champion. The arena erupted in celebration as Mendes was draped with the regional green and gold championship strap, a symbol of his undeniable skill and determination.

This victory for Mendes is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the global appeal of Muay Thai as a sport. It serves as a reminder that talent knows no boundaries and that fighters like Mendes can rise to the occasion, no matter where they hail from, to capture the hearts and imaginations of fight fans worldwide.

In the aftermath of this contest, the fighting world eagerly awaits the next chapter in Simon Mendes’s journey as a champion. With his remarkable victory in Marinha Grande, he has solidified his place among the elite in the cruiserweight division.

Thank you to Team Warriors for hosting the contest, staging the event and to Dina Pedro, we owe a lot of gratitude for bringing the WBC MuayThai back to Portugal.