Thai boxing world champion tragically dies in Almaty

Ali Serik, a world champion in Thai boxing, was tragically killed in Almaty at just 20 years old. Police have already detained the suspect, who was reportedly an acquaintance of the young athlete. A criminal investigation has been initiated into the case.

«The Nauryzbay district police department has opened a criminal case on the murder of a 20-year-old man. The suspect was captured ‘in hot pursuit’ and placed in a temporary detention facility. According to preliminary information, a quarrel broke out between the acquaintances, during which one of them used a knife. The weapon used in the crime has been seized,» the Almaty Police Department reported.

The Kazakhstan Muaythai Federation extended its condolences to the family and friends of Ali Serik, expressing deep sorrow over the loss.

«Grievous news has come from Almaty. World Muaythai champion Ali Serik, a titleholder in the senior male division, has been tragically killed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of our champion,» the statement read.

Ali Serik was a professional kickboxer who competed in the prestigious ONE Championship martial arts organization in Singapore, representing the Titan Fight Club team from Almaty.

In 2022, Serik claimed the gold medal at the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) Senior World Championships in Malaysia. At just 17 years old, he became the youngest senior world champion in the A category.

In 2023, he made his professional debut at ONE Friday Fights, marking the beginning of a promising career in the sport.

This tragedy echoes a similar heartbreaking incident in Almaty six years ago, involving renowned figure skater Denis Ten. In that case, two men attempted to steal the side mirrors from Ten’s Lexus GX 460 in broad daylight. The athlete confronted them, which led to a scuffle during which he was fatally stabbed. Later that evening, the 25-year-old Olympic medalist succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.