We’re thrilled to announce that Michael Whitley (3rd Year, Integrated Masters in Chiropracting) and Arron Gengadoo (4th year, BSc Honours and Product Design student) placed third in the World Championship Hand-to-Hand in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, competing among participants from 49 countries. The event took place from October 10th to 14th, and their performances were outstanding.

Michael and Arron fought four intense matches throughout the tournament. After a hard-fought semifinal, they went on to compete for third place—and secured it with resilience and skill. They spent their summer preparing at LSBU Active, training in both boxing and Muay Thai under the guidance of Golib, our dedicated coach who conducts boxing and Muay Thai sessions for students and the local community. Their hard work and commitment were truly commendable, and this result is a testament to their effort and passion.

Here’s what Michael had to say about his experience: “The World Championships were amazing, and it was such an experience to be able to go there and represent Hong Kong. It was great to meet a bunch of new fighters and experience different styles of fighting.” When asked how he got into Muay Thai, Michael claims to have started his journey at LSBU Active, just to try out something new and now has a “great love” for the sport and highly commends his coach Golib’s involvement in his development – Michael Whiteley, 3rd Year, Integrated Masters in Chiropracting.

At LSBU Active, we are hugely proud their achievement and of Golib’s fantastic contribution to these efforts.

For anyone interested in trying boxing or Muay Thai, Golib offers both beginner and advanced sessions at LSBU, open to all skill levels. Current session times are as follows:

  • Monday: Boxing, 7–8 pm | Muay Thai, 8–9 pm
  • Wednesday: Boxing, 6–7 pm
  • Thursday: Muay Thai, 8:30–10 pm
  • Friday: Muay Thai, 6–8 pm

It’s never too late to get involved!