On Saturday, January 31, 2026, Mauritius enters a new era of combat sports as the Côte d'Or National Sports Complex transforms into a spectacular arena where world-class Muay Thai and boxing collide with island glamour. For the first time in Mauritian history, international champions from One Championship, Glory Kickboxing, and WBC circuits will step into the ring alongside the island's top fighters in a production that reimagines combat sport as art form and competition as entertainment spectacle. Organized by The Age in collaboration with Prodalex Ltd, the GALA MUAY THAI & BOXE transcends typical fight nights through its unique fusion of high-level athletic combat, live Mauritian artistic performances, DJ sets, and light shows between bouts, creating an immersive evening where the adrenaline of striking meets the sophistication of a cultural gala. This isn't brutal violence for violence's sake. It's precision, technique, and warrior spirit presented as elegant theater under Mauritian stars.
Confirmed Date, Time, and Venue
Event Details
Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM (19h00 - 23h00, 4 hours of action)
Doors Open: 6:00 PM (18h00)
Venue: Côte d'Or National Sports Complex, Moka, Mauritius
Event Type: International Muay Thai & Boxing Gala
Format: World-class fights interspersed with live entertainment
Early Bird Ticketing
Early Bird Period: Available until November 30, 2025
Starting Price: Rs 1,300 (Mauritian Rupees, approximately $28 USD)
Purchase Platform: Otayo.com
Ticket Link: otayo.com/gala-muay-thai-boxe
Secure your seats early to lock in the best pricing before general admission rates increase.
The Côte d'Or National Sports Complex
Mauritius' Premier Sporting Venue
Located in Moka in central Mauritius, the Côte d'Or National Sports Complex represents the island's flagship sports infrastructure. Built to international standards, the multi-purpose facility regularly hosts national championships, regional tournaments, and cultural events requiring large-scale professional organization.
Venue Advantages:
- Professional arena lighting and sound systems
- Stadium seating with clear sightlines to the ring
- Modern amenities including concessions and restrooms
- Ample free public parking (first come, first served)
- Central location accessible from all regions of Mauritius
The choice of this prestigious venue signals the gala's ambition to establish combat sports as mainstream entertainment in Mauritius, not underground spectacle.
The Star-Studded Fight Card
Muay Thai Headliners
Victor Leo Pinto (65 kg)
Franco-Thai sensation competing across the world's most prestigious promotions including Thai Fight Team, One Championship, and Glory Kickboxing. Victor brings authentic Muay Thai technique honed in Thailand's legendary gyms combined with international championship experience that promises explosive striking and technical mastery.
Yunes Boualem (66 kg)
Two-time winner of the RWS World Series and All Star Fight champion, Yunes represents the new generation of European Muay Thai fighters blending traditional Thai techniques with modern striking innovation. His aggressive style and finishing ability make him a must-watch competitor.
Yassine Boughanem
The WBC Muay Thai Heavyweight World Champion arrives in Mauritius carrying one of combat sports' most prestigious titles. Yassine's powerful striking, ring control, and championship pedigree position him as one of the evening's most anticipated fighters.
Mikael Benatar
Two-time Muay Thai Grand Prix (MTGP) World Champion and WKN Champion, Mikael's decorated career spans multiple weight classes and fighting styles. His technical precision and fight IQ demonstrate why he's dominated international competition for years.
Denills
Muay Thai Île-de-France Champion 2023-2024 and winner of the 2023 Coupe de France, Denills represents the rising talent tier one step below world championship level but hungry to prove himself against elite competition on Mauritius' big stage.
Boxing Stars
Bakary Mamadou (71 kg)
Winner of the 2024 Coupe de France and WBC France Vice-Champion 2024, Bakary brings French boxing's technical excellence and tactical sophistication. His recent victories position him as one of Europe's most promising welterweights.
Anilton Pereira Kostoh (75 kg)
Rising star with multiple national titles, Anilton represents the new wave of aggressive boxers combining power with speed. His youth and hunger make him dangerous against any opponent.
Special Jury President
Samuel Kistohurry: Olympic Boxer and French Professional Champion
In a world exclusive, Samuel serves as President of the Official Boxing Jury, bringing Olympic-level credibility and professional championship experience to judging. His presence ensures fair scoring and elevates the entire event's legitimacy.
More Than Fights: The Artistic Experience
What Makes This a "Gala"
The GALA MUAY THAI & BOXE distinguishes itself from typical fight cards through comprehensive artistic production:
Live Mauritian Performances:
- Music showcasing island talent across genres
- Dance performances incorporating Mauritian cultural traditions
- Visual arts installations throughout the venue
- Performing artists to be announced closer to event date
Between-Fight Entertainment:
- Professional DJ sets maintaining energy during bout transitions
- Synchronized light shows creating arena-wide spectacle
- Video montages highlighting fighter backgrounds and achievements
- Interactive audience engagement activities
This format transforms passive spectating into immersive experience, keeping audiences engaged throughout the four-hour event even during necessary breaks between fights.
Understanding the Sports
Muay Thai: The Art of Eight Limbs
Muay Thai, Thailand's national sport, utilizes eight points of contact (fists, elbows, knees, shins) compared to boxing's two (fists). This creates dynamic striking exchanges where fighters attack from multiple angles:
- Clinch Work: Fighters grab opponents to deliver devastating knee strikes
- Kicks: Powerful roundhouse kicks targeting legs, body, and head
- Elbows: Short-range cutting strikes often causing dramatic cuts
- Cultural Tradition: Pre-fight Wai Kru Ram Muay dance honoring teachers
Why It's Spectacular: Muay Thai's varied arsenal produces constant action and creative striking combinations that boxing's hands-only rules don't allow.
Boxing: The Sweet Science
Traditional boxing emphasizes:
- Footwork: Positioning and angles to land punches while avoiding counters
- Defense: Head movement, blocking, and ring generalship
- Power vs. Speed: Balancing knockout power with volume punching
- Strategic Depth: Chess-like tactical adjustments between rounds
Why It's Timeless: Boxing's history, cultural significance, and pure punching artistry have captivated audiences for over a century.
Event Logistics and Visitor Information
Food and Beverages
- Food and drinks available for purchase on-site
- Multiple concession stands throughout the complex
- Cash recommended though card payment may be available
- Alcoholic beverages typically available at sports events in Mauritius
Parking and Transportation
Free Public Parking: Available outside the complex on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early (by 6:00 PM) to secure spots closest to the entrance.
Location: The Côte d'Or Complex sits in Moka, central Mauritius, approximately:
- 15 minutes from Port Louis (capital)
- 30 minutes from Grand Baie (north)
- 45 minutes from Flic-en-Flac (west coast)
- 40 minutes from Mahébourg (south)
Transportation Options:
- Personal vehicle (most convenient)
- Taxi or ride-sharing services
- Tour buses for group bookings (coordinate with organizers)
What to Bring
- Photo ID (may be required for age-restricted seating or alcohol purchase)
- Cash for concessions and merchandise
- Light jacket (air conditioning can be cool)
- Camera or smartphone (combat sports photography creates amazing memories)
Safety and Comfort
The Côte d'Or National Sports Complex maintains professional security and medical staff on-site during events. Combat sports at this level are highly regulated with referee oversight, ensuring fighter safety while delivering exciting action.
Why This Event Matters for Mauritius
Elevating Combat Sports Culture
Mauritius has produced talented martial artists and boxers for decades, but the island has historically lacked major international fight promotions. The GALA MUAY THAI & BOXE changes this by:
- Bringing World Champions to Local Fans: Mauritians can watch elite fighters without traveling overseas
- Inspiring Young Athletes: Local youth see professional pathways in combat sports
- Tourism Potential: Establishing Mauritius as a fight destination attracts sports tourists
- Cultural Evolution: Combat sports gain mainstream acceptance as art, not violence
Economic and Social Impact
Major sporting events generate:
- Hotel bookings and restaurant revenue
- International media coverage showcasing Mauritius
- Community pride and social cohesion through shared experiences
- Youth mentorship opportunities with visiting champions
Fight Night Culture: What to Expect
Audience Energy
Combat sports crowds create electric atmospheres where:
- Cheers erupt for clean strikes and technical brilliance
- Tension builds during close rounds and championship moments
- Respect flows for both winners and valiant losers
- Shared experience bonds strangers into temporary community
Duration and Pacing
With approximately 8-12 fights over four hours (7:00 PM - 11:00 PM), expect:
- 3-round Muay Thai bouts (typically 3 minutes per round)
- 4-8 round boxing matches depending on importance
- 5-10 minute breaks between fights for entertainment
- Main event likely starting around 10:00-10:30 PM
Arrive early to experience the full card, including exciting undercard talent showcasing rising stars.
Call to Action: Witness History at the Ring
The GALA MUAY THAI & BOXE on January 31, 2026 represents a watershed moment for Mauritian sports and entertainment. Secure your early bird tickets now at otayo.com/gala-muay-thai-boxe before November 30 to lock in Rs 1,300 pricing, mark your calendar for this historic evening, and prepare to witness world-class combat athletes perform their art in an unprecedented island setting.
When Victor Leo Pinto enters the ring carrying One Championship pedigree, when Yassine Boughanem defends his WBC title under Mauritian lights, when Mauritian fighters stand toe-to-toe with international champions proving island warriors deserve respect, you'll understand why this isn't just a fight card. It's combat sport as cultural statement, athletic excellence as island celebration, and the beginning of Mauritius' journey toward becoming a recognized destination on the global fight circuit.
The bell is about to ring. The champions are coming. Your seat awaits at the Côte d'Or.
Verified Information at a Glance
Event Category: International Muay Thai and Boxing Gala
Official Name: GALA INTERNATIONAL DE MUAY THAI & BOXE ANGLAISE (International Gala of Muay Thai & English Boxing)
Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM (19h00 - 23h00)
Doors Open: 6:00 PM (18h00)
Venue: Côte d'Or National Sports Complex, Moka, Mauritius
Organizers: The Age in collaboration with Prodalex Ltd
Early Bird Tickets: Available until November 30, 2025
Ticket Price: Starting from Rs 1,300 (approximately $28 USD)
Purchase: otayo.com/en/event/gala-muay-thai-boxe/
Featured Muay Thai Fighters:
- Victor Leo Pinto (65 kg, One Championship/Glory)
- Yunes Boualem (66 kg, RWS World Series)
- Yassine Boughanem (WBC Muay Thai Heavyweight Champion)
- Mikael Benatar (MTGP World Champion)
- Denills (France Champion 2023-2024)
Featured Boxers:
- Bakary Mamadou (71 kg, WBC France Vice-Champion)
- Anilton Pereira Kostoh (75 kg, National Champion)
Special Guest: Samuel Kistohurry (Olympic boxer, President of Official Boxing Jury)
Entertainment:
- Live performances by Mauritian artists (music, dance, visual arts)
- DJ sets between fights
- Light shows and production elements
On-Site Services:
- Food and drinks for purchase
- Free public parking (first come, first served)
