Surf Coast athletes chase gold in Bangkok

MATT WILLIAMS

Owner, Bones MMA

Three standout Surf Coast athletes are set to represent Australia on the world stage, as they prepare to compete at the 2026 Amazing Muay Thai WBC World Festival in Bangkok.

Held from 25–29 June, the event is one of the largest Muay Thai tournaments globally, attracting more than 800 athletes and featuring over 900 bouts across four days in the sport’s spiritual home.

Muay Thai, often referred to as the “art of eight limbs,” is Thailand’s national sport, combining punches, kicks, elbows and knees in a fast-paced and highly technical form of striking.

The Bangkok festival not only showcases elite competition but also celebrates the culture behind the sport, with traditional ceremonies and a deep connection to its origins.

For many athletes, competing in Thailand is considered a career milestone.

Eighteen-year-old Billy O’Brien returns to international competition after a standout 2025 campaign, where he claimed gold for Australia in Verona, Italy.

This time, O’Brien steps into the elite men’s 62kg division, moving into a deeper and more experienced field after defeating opponents from France, Uzbekistan, England and Germany on his way to gold last year.

Joining him is 12-year-old Marley Williams, who will compete in the elite boys 52kg division.

Marley’s selection comes just a year after watching his mother, Lani Williams, win gold in the women’s elite 57kg division in Italy before retiring from the sport.

“It was really cool to watch mum win gold in Italy. I was so proud,” Marley said. “I hope I can do the same for Australia.”

Marley is expected to face strong competition from nations including Thailand, Japan and Russia.

Also earning selection is Torquay’s Archie Edington, who will travel to Bangkok after winning gold at the recent national championships.

Edington has been invited as a substitute in the men’s 71kg division following a series of impressive performances, including a KO victory in his last bout.

Coach Hugh O’Donnell said the opportunity would be invaluable.

“While Archie is relatively inexperienced compared to the rest of the squad, he does have enormous talent. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience against international opposition,” he said.

With world-level experience, cultural immersion and international competition all on offer, the Bangkok event represents a significant step in the development of Australia’s next generation of fighters from the Surf Coast.