Muay Thai, or "the art of eight limbs," originated centuries ago in Thailand. Originally, it was a fighting technique used by warriors to defend themselves in battle. Legend tells that the fighter Nai Khanom Tom , captured in the 18th century, proved the power of this art by defeating several Burmese opponents in succession—he is since considered the founding father of Muay Thai.

When we say "eight limbs," we're talking about the entire body: fists, elbows, knees, and shins. That's what makes Muay Thai unique compared to other combat disciplines.

A Muay Thai fight takes place in a ring, with 5 rounds of 3 minutes each . Before the fight, each boxer performs the Wai Kru Ram Muay , a ritual dance to pay homage to their masters, family, and traditions. The atmosphere is punctuated by Thai music, which accompanies each exchange in the ring.

In Thailand, the way a fight is judged is also unique: the emphasis is often on control, balance, knees, throws, and elbows. What matters is not just "hitting," but demonstrating superiority and control. The rhythm of the rounds reflects this logic: Thais start calmly, increase intensity in the 2nd and 3rd rounds, give their all in the 4th, and then manage the 5th if they are ahead. With the arrival of foreigners, kickboxing, and more recently MMA, this rhythm has evolved: many fighters now attack hard from the first round, and the techniques themselves have been influenced, modernized, and adapted.

But what truly distinguishes Muay Thai is respect . Behind the harshness of the blows, there is always a profound spirit of fair play. At the end of a fight, it is common to see opponents embrace, thank each other, and greet each other. This mutual respect is a central value of Muay Thai, and that is what makes it a unique martial art, where the opponent is not an enemy, but a partner who allows for growth.

Today, Muay Thai retains its traditional soul, but continues to evolve through contact with the whole world. It is not just a sport: it is a living art, a culture, and a way to surpass oneself, found in the rings of Bangkok as well as in training halls all over the world.