McGreevy Makes History at Rajadamnern Stadium

First Irish Champion in Rajadamnern History

The Belfast fighter Niall McGreevy etched his name into the sport’s ledger when he stopped the defending champion Tapaokaew Singmawynn in the second round at Bangkok’s Rajadamnern Stadium. The venue, often called the home of Muay Thai, saw McGreevy become the first Irish competitor to capture the welterweight world title. “I can’t even put it into words,” he told BBC Sport NI, describing the moment as one of the best of his life.

McGreevy said the experience was even better than he could have imagined, noting that the stadium felt filled with Irish supporters cheering his name. Friends and family who traveled to Thailand joined the roar, amplifying the emotional triumph. The victory not only secured a prestigious belt but also opened a new chapter for Irish representation in the sport.

Training Partners and Coaching Legacy

McGreevy has been training in Thailand under the guidance of David MacIntosh and Jamie Crawford for the past dozen years. Both men are retired Muay Thai fighters who also helped him claim the WBC Muay Thai world welterweight championship. He previously defended that title in Glasgow with a unanimous decision over Arjan Hajdari.

He credits his coaches as the backbone of his career, calling them “two great coaches” and saying he could not have done it without them. Their influence extends beyond technique; they have shaped his discipline and mindset for over 12 years. By winning the Rajadamnern title, McGreevy feels he is giving back to the men who nurtured his talent.

Path to Multiple World Titles

His career record stands at 24 wins, five defeats, and one draw, a résumé that underscores his consistency in a demanding sport. At age 27, he sees the double‑title achievement as a foundation for future ambitions. The back‑to‑back championships highlight his ability to navigate different fighting styles and stadiums, from Glasgow’s arena to Bangkok’s historic ring.

McGreevy’s success reflects a growing trend of European fighters making their mark on Muay Thai’s traditional strongholds. The win adds to a narrative of cross‑cultural exchange that is reshaping the sport’s global landscape. It also reinforces the idea that dedication and mentorship can bridge continental barriers.

Ambitious Future Ahead

Now focused on defending his new Rajadamnern belt, McGreevy intends to “solidify my legacy as one of the best.” He acknowledges that the magnitude of his recent accomplishment has taken a few days to fully register. “I want to keep doing this over and over again, as long as I keep winning,” he said, emphasizing a long‑term vision for his career.

His goals include continuing to train in Thailand, maintaining his partnership with MacIntosh and Crawford, and adding more title defenses to his growing list. With a solid track record and a clear mindset, McGreevy is poised to become a prominent figure in Muay Thai for seasons to come.