Fiery grunts, the trademark sound of the ring gong, and roar of the crowds marked the premier of the Muay Thai Revgear Tournament of Champions [RTC], sanctioned by reputable Thai Boxing Association Sanctioning Authority of North America [TBA-SA].

On a brisk weekend in October 2016, coaches and competitors packed the ballrooms of the Des Moines Airport Holiday Inn, representing 20 states and 1 Canadian Province, including some traveling as far as Arizona, Texas and Massachusetts. Spectators hovered the bracket boards in anticipation as to who would earn a championship belt or the esteemed honor of becoming a TBA-SA North America Title holder.

In a combat sport that is a ritualistic spectacle, the event kicked off with top fighters decorated in ceremonial Mongkol, Prajioud and flower wreaths. Contenders performed the traditional dance, Wai Kru Ram Muay, which set the meditative trance-like intensity for the bouts that followed.

Fueled and ready for combat, the energy reached fever pitch among the country’s top teams: Dubuque Martial Arts Group, Top Level MMA, Team Link Muay Thai Worcester, Sitan Gym Arizona, and PRIDE Muay Thai / Apex, just to name a few. The toughest rivals proved their grit over the 2-day event, some going 5 rounds of fast-paced striking and clinching that authenticate Art of Eight Limbs competition.

Well organized by TBA-SA, RTC fights started on time and kept competitors motivated with no surprises. Fighters were matched with established, high caliber challengers in their bracket and weight class, making RTC a reliable and equally competitive experience for all. RTC has three divisions: Novice, A and B, for men and women, ages 17-45.

RTC 2016 awarded 18 Champions, 9 TBA-SA Title Champions and a Team Points Winner. What’s in store for RTC in 2017? TBA-SA founders Pete and Pam Peterson promise to bring a new format, new direction, and new championship to eager competitors.