Australian Muay Thai star James "Sweet As" Honey has added another prestigious title to his growing collection after defeating Italy's Franco Franzosi by unanimous decision to win the World Muaythai Council (WMC) World Middleweight Championship at the Infliction Fight Series 39 event on the Gold Coast. The victory further cements Honey's status as one of Australia's leading Muay Thai athletes.
Born and raised in Shepparton, Honey now trains out of Strikeforce Thai Boxing Gym in Queensland and has built an impressive international reputation through consistent performances against elite opponents. Before capturing the WMC world title, he had already secured the World Muay Thai Organisation (WMO) Middleweight World Championship and the ISKA Middleweight K-1 Rules World Championship, making him one of Australia's most decorated active fighters.
The championship contest took place at the RACV Royal Pines Resort in Benowa on the Gold Coast. Honey faced a determined challenge from Italian contender Franco Franzosi, with both fighters trading powerful combinations throughout five competitive rounds. Neither athlete was able to secure a stoppage, leaving the outcome to the judges after an entertaining championship bout.
When the final bell sounded, all three judges awarded the contest to Honey. The official scorecards read 48–47, 48–47 and 50–45, giving the Australian a unanimous decision victory. As referee raised his hand in triumph, Honey celebrated with his team before receiving the coveted WMC championship belt from Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.
Following the win, Honey thanked the coaches, teammates and supporters who have helped shape his career. He expressed gratitude to his coaching staff, including Mark Pease, Dan Moulder, Darren Freiberg, and Riley Anastas, saying their years of hard work and guidance had played a major role in his latest success. He also acknowledged his wife, family, friends and sponsors for supporting him throughout demanding training camps and competitions.
Honey also thanked the organisers of the Infliction Fight Series for providing the opportunity to compete for a championship belt he had long dreamed of winning. The world title represents another milestone in what has been an outstanding year for the Australian fighter. Earlier in 2026, he successfully defended his WMO Middleweight World Championship with an impressive knockout victory over British challenger Joe Craven, demonstrating his versatility by winning both by knockout and by points against world-class opposition.
The latest triumph further enhances Honey's international standing in Muay Thai and positions him among Australia's elite combat sports athletes. With multiple recognised world championships now in his possession, the Shepparton product continues to build an impressive legacy while inspiring aspiring fighters across regional Victoria and the wider Australian martial arts community. Fans and experts believe even bigger international opportunities could await as Honey continues his remarkable rise on the world stage.
