Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
August 24, 2025
South Auckland Muay Thai Stars Triumph in Thailand Against All Odds
TLDR
- Young fighters from South Auckland gain international recognition and competitive edge by training at elite gyms and winning at Thailand's Rajadamnern Stadium.
- Athletes train at Oliver MMA South Auckland and Victorious Muaythai Brisbane, overcoming injuries and mental challenges through disciplined Muay Thai practice.
- These fighters inspire South Auckland youth by demonstrating how dedication and perseverance can create better opportunities and foster cultural pride.
- Diverse fighters Jackie Cheng, Johnny Dymond, Cam Tukua, and Moana Watene showcase resilience and skill against world-class Muay Thai practitioners.
Impact - Why it Matters
This story matters because it demonstrates how combat sports can serve as a powerful vehicle for social mobility and cultural representation in underserved communities. For young people in South Auckland and similar regions facing socioeconomic challenges, these athletes provide tangible proof that dedication to martial arts can create international opportunities and foster personal growth. Their success challenges stereotypes about youth from diverse backgrounds while promoting positive values of resilience, community support, and cultural pride. The fighters' mentorship approach shows how athletic achievement can inspire broader social change, offering alternatives to negative pathways and strengthening community identity through shared accomplishment.
Summary
Four rising Muay Thai stars from the South Pacific region—Jackie Cheng (25, Cambodian/New Zealand), Johnny Dymond (20, Tonga), Cam Tukua (17, Cook Island/Maori), and Australian-Maori fighter Moana Watene (18)—have made waves representing their communities on the international stage in Thailand. Training primarily out of Oliver MMA South Auckland and Victorious Muaythai Brisbane, these young athletes from the Manukau region overcame significant challenges including injuries, elite training demands, and mental fortitude requirements to compete against the world's best practitioners at prestigious venues like Rajadamnern Stadium.
Beyond individual victories, their journey serves as a powerful statement of cultural pride and a beacon of hope for youth in South Auckland. The team demonstrated remarkable resilience when Jackie Cheng sustained an arm injury during their tour, prompting his teammates to step up with impressive performances—Johnny and Cam secured vital victories while Moana delivered a knockout win. Their collective strength and unity underscore their commitment to representing New Zealand and their diverse communities, with Jackie expressing pride in "Representing New Zealand & Get that W" after his hard-fought battle.
These fighters aim to inspire the next generation through their Instagram presence, sharing their journey from Manukau to international rings as proof that dedication and perseverance can forge a path to better opportunities. Their message emphasizes that success requires effort, belief, and support from their training gyms, demonstrating that young people from challenging backgrounds can achieve greatness and serve as guides for others seeking direction. They invite viewers to witness their passion and determination through their digital content on Instagram, capturing the essence of their mission to honor their home through Muay Thai.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content disributed by 24-7 Press Release. Read the original source here, South Auckland Muay Thai Stars Triumph in Thailand Against All Odds
