Miri fighter dedicates victory to ex ‘rehab guys’
by cindy lai · Borneo Post OnlineMIRI (Oct 7): Gavin Ghia Mattu of Warmonger Miri topped the 74-76kg semi pro category in the TYT Cup Muay Thai Championships 2024 held at Amphitheatre, Jalan Budaya, Kuching from Oct 4-6.
He defeated Sofisyazwani Japar of MuayThai Kenyalang (Kuching).
“Winning this TYT Cup is my personal victory since my coach Trevor Salang was also a TYT Cup champion in 2014 and 2015, ” Gavin told The Borneo Post after his fight on Saturday.
A total of 200 fighters took part in the tournament which is recognized by the International Muay Thai Associations (IFMA).
Gavin said he wanted to win to inspire those formerly from the Kenosis Rehabilitation centre who are now given a second chance in life.
He highlighted the case of Joshua Johnny who is now working for him.
“We provide jobs to give them the opportunity to work once they left the rehab. We hope to set an example, to inspire more companies to offer jobs to the rehabilitation guys and girls. We understand that these individuals would have difficulty finding jobs, so I just want to show that they have a lot of potential as athletes,” he explained.