Kaleece Kytwayhat from Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation is representing Team Canada at the WBC Muay Thai World Festival in Verona, Italy (Warrior Spirit Martial Arts Academy/Facebook).

By Austin Mattes

Warrior Spirit Martial Arts

Star in the making: Kaleece Kytwayhat to represent Canada in Italy for Muay Thai World Festival

May 16, 2025 | 6:00 AM

There is a new star in the making in Saskatchewan.

Kaleece Kytwayhat, a talented 14-year-old fighter from Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation, who trains out of Warrior Spirit Martial Arts Academy in North Battleford, has been selected to represent Team Canada at the World Boxing Council (WBC) Muay Thai World Festival in Verona, Italy, from June 25 to 29.

The WBC Muay Thai World Festival is a prestigious event, known for bringing together elite fighters from around the globe to compete in the art and discipline of Muay Thai.

Kytwayhat’s selection to Team Canada highlights her exceptional skill and dedication to the sport. The most impressive part, she has only been training martial arts for four years, but her hard work, paired with competitive nature and natural talent has proven her to be a top fighter to watch.

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Kytwayhat’s coach, Stuart Fontaine, who is a renowned name in the Canadian martial arts scene, said her talent is special.

“She has the potential to be a champion, I’ve trained with the best of the best and I know she’s something special, especially when she goes against girls her age and her weight class, she stands out, like she really puts on a clinic,” he said.

With the competition in Verona, it gives Kytwayhat a chance to fight against some of the best in the world while also giving her invaluable experience. She said she is excited about the trip but also nervous.

“I am excited but I’ve never left Canada before, this is my first time, so I am kind of nervous too,” said Kytwayhat.

To prepare for the upcoming competition, Kytwayhat has been training diligently to be at her very best. Her attendance at the Muay Thai World Festival not only highlights her personal achievements but also brings recognition to Indigenous athletes. Even though she is only 14 years old, Kytwayhat has already served as an inspiration to future generations, said Fontaine.

“I always talk with her and tell her that there is the responsibility that comes with this, to set a good example and lead by example to the younger generations. Every community we go to, they already know of her, we have girls that mimic her in the gym, they want to be just like her, she’s has done a good job at being a role model for the little ones,” he said.

Now, with the event just over a month away, fans and supporters are eager to see Kytwayhat represent Canada with pride and showcase the strength of Indigenous athletes on the world stage.

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Austin.mattes@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @AustinMattes