TWO Midland Muay Thai fighters have returned from Thailand with gold medals and a swag of accolades after competing at the World Muay Thai Federation Championships in Bangkok.

Mad Dog Martial Arts fighters Ashraf Farawah and Shell Read travelled to Thailand in March as part of a 220-strong South Pacific team and both came home champions.

Farawah went undefeated across three bouts against top-level opponents, claiming gold in his division before being voted Australia and South Pacific Adult Fighter of the Tournament which is one of the competition’s most prestigious individual honours.

Coach Slade Hutcheson said Farawah was in complete control throughout.

“Cool, calm, and picking people apart like it was light work,” he said.

“Every fight he looked sharp, controlled, and a step ahead. Absolute clinic.”

Read’s campaign was equally impressive.

She secured a strong win against an Indian opponent to earn a medal in her division, before stepping up for a special bout against a Russian competitor which was a challenge she met with characteristic determination.

“If you’ve followed her journey, you know she’s had a hard run,” Mr Hutcheson said.

“But every single time she gets back up and gets back to work.

“No excuses, just grit, heart, and consistency.”

Read also embraced the cultural experience of Thailand, receiving a traditional Sak Yant tattoo and blessing at a temple during the trip.

Prior to departing in March, Read said competing in the birthplace of the sport felt like stepping into the source.

“There’s so much history there and it means a lot to experience that side of the culture now as a fighter,” she said.

Farawah had echoed the sentiment, saying competing in Thailand was something he had always wanted to do since taking up the sport.

Hutcheson said the trip was one he wouldn’t forget.

“New country, big stage, and serious talent everywhere,” he said.

“Our crew didn’t just show up – we made noise.”

Both fighters were praised for representing their gym, their team and themselves with pride, humility and respect throughout the championships.