New Muay Thai Fan? Here's a Guide to Watching Thailand's National Sport
Known as Thailand’s national sport, Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, is a martial art that has evolved throughout the past 700 years since the time of the Sukhothai Kingdom. It is a form of close-combat done by soldiers in a bid to protect their homeland using their bodies as weapons and shields.
More than just a sport, Muay Thai is deeply ingrained in Thai culture and religion because the headpiece (mongkon), armband (pra jiad), and shorts that fighters wear in combat are often blessed by the monks for good luck and protection.
Some of Thailand’s famous fighters who have etched their names in Muay Thai arenas are Buakaw Banchamek, Namsaknoi Yudthagarngamtorn, Samart Payakaroon, Pudpadnoi Worawut, and more. They compete in various classes and championship titles, each vying for supremacy in their respective divisions. Most of them fight for the lighter weight category and the fly and bantamweight divisions. There are few fights under the heavyweight divisions – super cruiserweight, heavyweight, and super heavyweight.
If you’re new to the sport, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a guide to experiencing the thrill of Muay Thai in Thailand.
Venues
When it comes to sporting arenas, the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, located on Ram Intra Road, is one of the most famous venues to watch Muay Thai live in Thailand. Established in 1956, it has become a prestigious stadium where the most elite fighters can compete, with a seating capacity of 5,000.
For the ultimate Muay Thai experience, you may opt for ringside seats, while the club class offers luxurious VIP treatment. Second-class and third-class seating options are available for those who prefer to sit near food and drink counters.
There is a plethora of options on where to watch live Muay Thai fights – from intimate local stadiums to grand arenas – each offers a unique experience that suits your preference. For more venues on where to catch Muay Thai in the kingdom, go here.
Just like other events, securing tickets for Muay Thai matches can be done online or on-site, depending on the venue and lineup of fighters in the tournament. Furthermore, you can conveniently get tickets through different platforms such as Muay Thai Stadium, MuayThai Tickets.net, Klook, and more.
Preparing for the Experience
The dress code and etiquette are crucial to observe. Wear something casual and comfortable but avoid donning revealing outfits in respect of Thai culture.
To further enhance your experience, spare some time to acquaint yourself with basic Muay Thai terminologies like Kao Loi (flying knee strike), Sok Ku (low kick), Wai Khru (pre-fight dance ritual), and more.
During the fight, audiences should respect all fighters, regardless of who will win, by embodying a sportsmanlike mindset. It is also normal to cheer for your favorite contender, and you can express your excitement without shouting, ridiculing, or insulting anyone.
It is also important to note that filming or taking photos may be prohibited during certain combats, depending on the event rules. To avoid potential violations, it is advisable to ask permission from the authorities at the stadium.
Once the fight concludes, do not leave immediately! It has been a Muay Thai tradition to stay for the “Wai Ceremony.” It is a ritual that signifies respect and courtesy for both the sport and one’s opponent as they exit the ring.
If the Muay Thai bug sinks its teeth in you, why not expand your horizons? You may consider collecting your own Muay Thai memorabilia or perhaps make a modest donation to support fighters’ training.
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