Thai Boxing, Muay Thai or Siamese Kick Boxing

It is not uncommon for foreign visitors to Bangkok to come across a group of Thais crowding around television sets at night watching the latest boxing match. Thai boxing, or Muay Thai, attracts the most attention of the Thai people.

Your visit to Bangkok will not be completed if you do not see at least one Thai boxing matches are regularly televised, attending the live event is a thing not to be missed. Thai boxing is almost universally regarded as today's most exciting ring sport. It is considered by many to be the most violent martial art compared with Japanese Karate, Korean Taekwando, and Chinese Kang Fu.

A boxing stadium is normally a noisy crowded arena, full of spectators cheering and screaming supports for their favourites. Each fight starts with both corners performing a ritual, honouring and paying homage to their teachers ( Ruam Muay Thai). A match consists of five rounds, each of which lasts three minutes with a two minute break between rounds. The bout is normally accompanied by the music of a three instrument orchestra (drums, cymbals and flute). The music rises and falls with the action taking place in the roped ring. Apart from using their gloves, boxers are allowed to use their feet, legs, knees, elbows, shoulders, or any other parts of the body, except the head, to overcome their opponent. A winner is awarded for a knock out or a pints decision given by a panel of judges.

There are two boxing stadiums in the city.

1. Ratchadamnoen Stadium on Thanon Ratchadamnoen Nok, muaythai2000.com/
2. Lumpini Stadium on Thanon Rama IV (near Tahnon Sathon), muaythailumpini.com/

Events take place at Ratchadamnoen Stadium on Mondays 18.30-23.00, Wednesdays 18.30-23.00, Thursdays 18.30-23.00, and Sundays 18.30-23.00, and at Lumphini Stadium on Tuesdays, Fridays 18.30-23.00 and Saturdays 16.30-20.30 and 20.30-24.00 . However, interested visitors are advised to check in advance for information on venues, times and ticket prices.

credit : Bangkok2000 City of Culture,Bangkok Metropolitan Administration