World Muaythai Association

About Muaythai

The word ' Muay ' has been derived from ancient times which means 'to pull together' to form a single group or 'unity'. It is a discipline where practical fighting skills using all parts of the body like the head, fists, elbows, knees and feet and the mind are united together to face challenges from adversaries who may also be armed.

The art of 'Muay' has been enjoying Royal support in Thailand since the 12th century A.D. 'till about the late 1920's the art of 'Muay' was popularly practised in Thailand with the fists bound. This was referred to as 'The Bound Fist Muay' or 'Muay Kaad Chuek'. This was discontinued due to the lethal injuries it can cause and the use of boxing gloves from the sport of Western Boxing was introduced. It was after this that the art of 'Muay' started getting world wide attention and was recognized all over the world as 'Muaythai'- named after Thailand, the country from where it spread to the whole world.

Brief History Of Muaythai:

From the reign of  King Rama V in 1868, Muaythai flourished because of the personal interest of the King. The country was at peace and Muaythai was practised not only as an art of self defense but also as a means of physical exercise, recreation of the mind and body and also personal and mental upliftment. This was the Golden Age for Muaythai where it truly started developing as a sport.

The Suan Gularb Arena was the first permanent arena for Muaythai contests and was in use from 1920 for ten years. Till the 2nd World War nine such major arenas existed in Bangkok. Some fell into disuse with the passage of time and also because of the commissioning of two famous Muaythai stadiums in Bangkok which are in use today where Muaythai matches are held every day – The Ratchadamnoen and The Lumpini.