
Michael Viani (right) blocks a knee from coach Boomer (left) | Mik Horvath/MBC
An electric event showcasing strength and skill will be returning to Renfrew for its third installment and this year is expected to be bigger than ever.
Victory in the Valley is coming back to the Renfrew Armouries on Saturday, Oct. 11, putting on a most impressive display of The Valley’s Muay Thai.
Head Coach Kru Mirza Hopovac said Victory in the Valley has always had a strong community backing which is just one of the reasons why the event has been so successful.
As head coach, Mirza is very involved with all members of the gym and his fighters are taking a new approach to training in preparation for Victory in the Valley.
Michael Viani is just one of the competitors for Victory in the Valley 3 and he said the upcoming event will get him back into his prime fighting spirit.
- Viani is training nearly every day to keep himself at his most competitive form | Mik Horvath/MBC
- Sparring techniques get more advanced as the fighters inch closer to Victory in the Valley | Mik Horvath/MBC
- Michael Viani (right) blocks a knee from coach Boomer (left) | Mik Horvath/MBC
- Muay Thai is a form of boxing and its technique includes kicks and elbows | Mik Horvath/MBC
Viani said the training has gotten a lot more frequent and serious as he approaches his fight day.
Muay Thai is Viani’s passion and he couldn’t imagine life without it.

Viani said there is a lot of training outside the gym as well with cardio and conditioning being a key asset to endurance during a fight. | Mik Horvath/MBC
To see Viani’s skills in the ring spectators can purchase tickets online or stop by Renfrew Muay Thai’s gym on Renfrew Avenue West right by the t-junction in front of the post office.

Stephen Young is another Renfrew Muay Thai fighter making an appearance in the ring Oct. 11 | Mik Horvath/MBC
(Written by Mik Horvath)