In the silence of the sports hall, the dull thud of boxing gloves hitting the punching bag echoes. The sound grows, accelerates, as if beating to the rhythm of the champion's heart. Here, in the Turkmen Muay Thai, the legendary Orazmuhammed Byashimov forges a new generation of fighters, instilling in them not only technique but also the spirit of a winner that once led him to the world champion title.

Orazmuhammed Byashimov is a living legend of Turkmen sports. An honored master of sports of Turkmenistan, world champion in 2001, and World Cup champion in 2003 in kickboxing, he has journeyed from a young boxer to the head of the Turkmenistan Muay Thai Federation. His story is one of relentless labor, dedication to sports, and striving for the highest achievements.

The Path of a Champion

Byashimov began his sports journey as a thirteen-year-old teenager, joining a boxing section following his older brothers in 1986. His talent and perseverance quickly bore fruit: he became the champion of national and all-union boxing championships in 1990-1991, and the champion of the CS "Dynamo" in 1991. International recognition came to him in 1995 when he took second place at the International Class "A" Championship in Turkey and entered the top ten boxers in the world in the 60 kg weight category.

In 1999, Byashimov decided to try his hand at kickboxing, and this decision brought him worldwide fame. In 2001, he became the world champion, and in 2003, he won the World Cup champion title. His track record is impressive: a four-time silver medalist at world championships in Ireland, Austria, Italy, and the USA, and a three-time bronze medalist at world championships in Greece (twice) and France.

Coach and Mentor

Today, Orazmuhammed Byashimov is not just the head of the Turkmenistan Muay Thai Federation but also an active coach, working daily with young athletes. He leads the Ashgabat club "Combat Gloves," where he nurtures a new generation of champions.

His dedication to sports is bearing fruit. At the V Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Turkmenistan, Byashimov's protégés won 11 medals: 2 gold, 1 silver, and 8 bronze. Turkmen athletes took third place in the team standings – an impressive result for a young team. "Honestly, during the preparation for the Asian Games, I didn't sleep at home at all. I was only with the guys," Byashimov says.

Inspiring the Young Generation

Byashimov's influence on young athletes cannot be overestimated. The athletes speak enthusiastically about Muay Thai and training under Orazmukhammed Byashimov's guidance.

"I really like everything here, I come to training with great pleasure," says the older brother, Islam Shamuhammedov. "I've been training for several months now, and I hope to soon participate in international tournaments, win gold like my coach, and make Turkmenistan famous worldwide."

Islam's words reflect the enthusiasm and high aspirations that Byashimov instills in his students. He not only teaches them fighting techniques but also inspires them to dream of great victories, following his own example.

The Champion's Philosophy

Byashimov believes in the talent of the Turkmen people and their natural predisposition to martial arts. "The Turkmen people are talented, Turkmen guys are talented," he says. "I think it's in the blood of the Turkmen people – to defend their 'self.' This is a big plus in sports, a very big plus."

But talent is just the foundation. The main thing, according to Byashimov, is hard work. "What can I say to the guys – let them train, let them work. They have to work hard while they are young. Kids should work hard in the literal sense, not play on their phones," he advises.

His own experience is the best confirmation of these words. "When I was training myself, I would hit 1,000, 1,500, 2,000 times. I would hit the same strike over and over," Byashimov recalls.

Looking to the Future

Today, under Orazmuhammed Byashimov's leadership, about 200 athletes are engaged in Muay Thai in Turkmenistan. The organization, established in December 2014, is actively developing. Muay Thai sports clubs operate in every velayat of the country.

Byashimov looks to the future with enthusiasm and supports the idea of including Muay Thai in the 2028 Olympic Games program. "I will be very happy. For our sport, these are great opportunities in the future," he says.

Orazmukhammed Byashimov continues his work, passing on his experience and knowledge to the younger generation. His son, a second-year student at the Turkmen State Institute of Physical Culture and Sports, Ibragim Byashimov, is already following in his father's footsteps, becoming a four-time champion of Turkmenistan in Muay Thai.

For many young athletes, Orazmuhammed Byashimov has become not just a coach but a second father. His dedication to sports, relentless work, and high achievements serve as an inspiration for hundreds of young Turkmen athletes dreaming of making their country famous on the international stage