Mexico's Elite Kickboxing Warriors Set for Pan American Battle in Chile

The Mexican kickboxing team is fired up and ready to make waves at the 2024 Pan American Kickboxing Championship, a high-stakes event being held in Santiago, Chile from October 30 to November 3. This year’s championship isn't just about regional bragging rights; it carries the added pressure of being a crucial qualifier for the Chengdu 2025 World Games, where only the best will advance.

In a recent interview with the National Commission for Physical Culture and Sports (CONADE), Fernando Granados León, president of the National Kickboxing Federation (FENAKIB & WAKO Mexico), underscored the significance of the tournament. "For FENAKIB & WAKO Mexico, it is the most important event in the Americas. We are prepared because we have worked very hard during these last two years, and we wish the greatest success to all the kids," Granados León stated, his passion palpable as he discussed the upcoming challenge. "Our selected players are aware of where and what they are going to."

Indeed, the stakes are sky-high. Twelve coveted spots for Chengdu 2025 are up for grabs, and WAKO Mexico is set to field 10 standout athletes with the ambition of locking in as many qualifications as possible. Granados León made it clear just how pivotal these upcoming days will be for his team. "Only after the Olympic Games, the World Games is the most important multi-sport event in the world," he emphasized. "It serves as a prelude to the Olympics, so the level of competition and prestige cannot be overstated."

Meet Mexico's Kickboxing Elite

Mexico’s lineup is both talented and well-prepared, with top athletes who have invested countless hours training at the National Center for the Development of Sports Talents and High Performance (CNAR). These fighters include Kerena Martínez, José Campuzano, Héctor Solorio, María Fernanda Granados, Milka Saucedo, Vanessa Sánchez, Rafael Pedraza, David Betancourt, Brenda Capetillo, and Joshua Ruiz. Their regimen has been rigorous, designed to sharpen every skill needed to excel on an international stage.

“Our fighters have been molded through a blend of relentless dedication and top-tier training," Granados León shared. "We’ve fine-tuned everything: from their physical conditioning to their strategic approach in the ring."

Granados León was quick to acknowledge the instrumental role of CONADE in elevating Mexican kickboxing. "Thanks to this support, we have been able to provide them with continuous and constant monitoring in the areas of high-performance sports," he explained. "This includes essential elements such as nutrition, psychology, and medical attention, which are crucial in a combat sport like ours, especially for dealing with injuries."

CONADE’s backing has done more than just fund resources; it has paved a path for long-term growth and development. This partnership has yielded tangible results, such as the team’s historic performance at the Junior World Championship a few months ago. “We finished in eighth place, a groundbreaking achievement for us,” Granados León noted with pride. “Now, in the Pan American Championship, we aim to outdo ourselves and secure a Top 3 finish."

Olympic Dreams in Sight

For the athletes and officials of Mexican kickboxing, the dream doesn't stop at the Pan American Championship or even the World Games. The ultimate goal is to see their beloved sport included in the Olympic Games. As it stands, kickboxing has already earned recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as an official and permanent member. This milestone has fueled aspirations across the community, creating a sense of unity and purpose.

Granados León is hopeful but grounded. "The greatest dream of everyone involved in this sport is for it to become an Olympic discipline in the near future," he said. "The steps we take now are building toward that ultimate dream, and every victory, every podium finish, brings us closer."

The Pan American Championship is more than just another tournament; it is a proving ground where years of preparation will be put to the test. The level of competition will be fierce, but Team Mexico is laser-focused and motivated. With a comprehensive support system behind them, these Aztec warriors are primed to make a lasting impact in Santiago and perhaps even etch their names in the annals of kickboxing history.

As the countdown to the championship continues, the spotlight is firmly on Mexico’s finest. Each fighter carries the hopes of a nation, stepping into the ring not just to compete but to inspire and elevate their sport to greater heights. And with Chengdu 2025 on the horizon, the stakes have never been higher.

With dreams of Olympic glory, the Mexican kickboxing team is not only ready to fight but to put on a show that embodies the resilience and spirit of their nation. As the first bell rings in Santiago, all eyes will be on this remarkable group, ready to give it their all and hopefully return home as heroes.