March 22, 2025 — When the history of elite-level MuayThai is written, Niamh Kinehan’s name will hold a prominent place among the champions who made a lasting mark under the green and gold banner of the World Boxing Council (WBC) MuayThai. The English fighter not only captured the prestigious WBC MuayThai Lightweight World Title but also successfully defended it in commanding fashion before announcing her retirement at the peak of her powers in 2025.
The Crowning Moment
Kinehan’s journey with the WBC MuayThai began with a defining moment on February 12, 2022, when she faced Italy’s Ludovica Ciarpaglini for the vacant WBC MuayThai World Lightweight Title. Displaying technical brilliance and relentless pressure, Kinehan secured a unanimous decision victory, earning her place as the division’s top fighter and making her mark as one of England’s most accomplished MuayThai athletes.
The First Title Defense – Down Under
Following her title win, Kinehan stepped into the ring for her first defense on June 25, 2022, at Muay Thai Grand Prix Australia. She faced Australian challenger Shannon Gardiner, a well-respected contender known for her aggressive style. Kinehan silenced any doubters with a clinical performance, once again winning by unanimous decision. The bout further established her as a composed, strategic fighter who could adapt to styles and control pace — hallmarks of a seasoned world champion.
A Final Statement – Perth 2025
After nearly a year away from the global spotlight, Kinehan returned to the ring for what would become her final MuayThai contest on February 25, 2025, in Perth, Australia. Her opponent was Kaitlyn Tucker, a rising talent and local favorite. But the occasion belonged to Kinehan. In a bout that showcased her evolution from skilled technician to a power-punching finisher, she stopped Tucker with a technical knockout in the fourth round. It was a performance that underscored not only her dominance but her ability to finish strong — a champion’s flourish.
The Retirement Announcement
Just days later, on March 4, 2025, Niamh Kinehan shocked the MuayThai world by announcing her retirement from the sport. She cited a lack of further challenges in the lightweight division and a desire to pursue a new journey in mixed martial arts (MMA). With her WBC World Title still around her waist and a spotless championship record, Kinehan exited the MuayThai arena undefeated as a WBC world champion.
Legacy Under the WBC Banner
Niamh Kinehan’s WBC MuayThai reign may have been relatively short, but it was impactful. In the span of three years, she rose to world champion status, successfully defended her title twice — including a win on foreign soil — and left the sport without ever tasting defeat as a WBC champion.
Her journey reflects the spirit of a true MuayThai warrior: respectful, relentless, and ready for the next challenge. And while her gloves may be hung up in the MuayThai ring, the legacy of Niamh Kinehan in WBC MuayThai history is secured — a champion who rose, ruled, and walked away on her own terms.
WBC MuayThai Secretary General Kevin Noone stated “Niamh is one of those fighters we will talk about in many years to come who was a proud WBC world champion both inside and outside the ring, we wish her the best of luck for whatever she does next.”
