British Muay Thai standout Joe Ryan has signed a multi-fight deal with PFL Europe, marking the official transition from elite Muay Thai competition to the world of mixed martial arts. An announcement made through management and social media today confirms the exclusive agreement between Ryan and PFL.
Muay Thai Star Joe Ryan signs PFL
At just 21 years old, Joe Ryan is widely known for his combat sports circles due to his rapid appearance and success in the Muay Thai world. Ryan made history as the first British fighter to win a championship title at Rajadamnan Stadium in Bangkok, one of Thailand’s most renowned Muay Thai arenas. During his career, he has earned major honors such as WMO, ISKA, and WBC Muay Thai World Middleweight titles, and in 2024 he was recognized as one of the world’s top 15 pound male fighters by the world’s Muay Thai organizations.
Fighting from Birkenhead and representing two brothers Muay Thai Gym, Ryan compiled the professional record with 18 wins (8 due to eight knockouts), three losses and one Muay Thai. His technical approach, strong defense and unrelenting power led him to international competition, particularly his prominent victory. In particular, they seized the coveted middleweight belt at Rajadamnan Stadium in December 2023, and later won the WBC World Middleweight title at Beckham Big Win Champion Gym in August.
Ryan’s achievements have not been noticed in the British combat sports community. He was named the 2023 Battle Record British Male Fighter of the Year after a season that included a WMO world title and a home soil and successful defense overseas.
By signing with PFL Europe, Ryan becomes one of the latest renowned kickboxers and Muay Thai specialists to join the MMA ranks. Running the league system in regular seasons, playoffs and large prize pool championship finals, the PFL has experienced significant growth in Europe. The organization continues to employ talent from a variety of impressive backgrounds to strengthen its MMA roster.
Details regarding Ryan’s PFL debut have not been released yet. However, the signature is seen as a major opportunity for both athletes and promotions to further expand their profile in international combat sports. Industry observers watch closely as Ryan adapts his well-known and impressive capabilities to MMA requirements. This move ends his decorated Muay Thai career, but opens up new challenges when he joins the professional MMA circuit.
Ryan’s management team and representatives from PFL Europe have no further comment on the details of the current multi-fight contract. The news marks a new era for one of the UK’s top young fighters as he embarks on the next stage of his combat sports career.