History of Muay Thai

Muay Thai is a combat sport with origins set deep in the history of Thailand. Muay (boxing in Thai language) Thai is pronounced Thai Muay by native Thais. Muay Thai is a brutal and athletically demanding combat sport, with participants utilising fists, elbows, knees and legs as striking weapons to the opponent. Muay Thai is practiced extensively in Thailand, with international participation significantly growing over the past decade. Thai boxing has a historical value which is appreciated by those who practice the sport. This history which forms the culture of Thai boxing has been developed over centuries of military and kingdom battle, religious influence, cultural meaning, social development and government support. The initial origins of Thai boxing can be traced back 2000 years to the southern China tribes of Ao Lai who migrated south to the central plains of what is now the Kingdom of Thailand. Because all records of Siam history were destroyed by the Burmese in the Ayuddhaya period it is difficult for the precise origins to the written. Consequently the origins of Muay Thai have been verbally passed down through generations, with modern day Muay Thai combat warriors understanding the value of warrior established by those before them through a combination of explosive artful skill and respectful calmness. It has been told that many great leaders of Thailand have หนังโป๊ the warrior spirit which paved the way for the development of Muay Thai. In the 15th century King Naresuan the Great was known for his bravery against the Burmese. Pra Chao Suua, or the the Tiger King (1662 -1709), was an avid follower of Muay Thai. The Tiger King participated in Muay Thai bouts across all of Siam. King Taskin the Great ruled from 1767 to 1784 and rose to fame from the ashes of Ayuddhaya, at the time the capital of Siam. The Burmese had overrun the city and destroyed all historical records of Siam. After an intense battle in which the Burmese conquered Ayuddhaya, King Taksin gathered 500 followers and escaped east towards what is now known as the Issan region of Thailand. King Taskin built a new army in this region with now legendary warrior Phraya Pichai Daab hak as his commander in chief. The name Daab hak means 'broken sword', a name he was given when he fought on with no sword after it broke in half during battle, using techniques now known as Muay Thai fighting. Phraya Pichai Daab hak led King Taskin to a glorious victory over the relentless Burmese. Nai Khanom Tom is considered to be the most famous boxer in the history of Thai boxing. He was the first boxer to have fought in another country. After being imprisoned by the Burmese during war Nai Khanom Tom was challenged to fight against 10 of the best Burmese Bando boxers. He defeated all one after the other and was granted freedom back to Siam.