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Muay Thai, often referred to as “Thai boxing”, is a martial art that uses a combination of striking and clinching techniques. The martial arts is known as the “art of eight limbs” due to the combined use of punches, kicks, knees and elbows.
But, how old is Muay Thai?
The history of Muay Thai dates back approximately 400 years to the 16th century Siam kingdom as a peace-time martial art practised by soldiers. Over the past few centuries, Muay Thai has evolved into the popular combat sport it is today.
In this article, we answer the common question “how old is Muay Thai?” and discuss the development and key events in the martial arts history.
How Old Is Muay Thai?
Muay Thai can be traced back to at least the 16th century Siam kingdom as a peace-time martial art practised by the soldiers of King Naresuan.
The first documented exhibition of Muay Thai was reported by French diplomat Simon de la Loubère. He was sent by King Louis XIV in 1687 to the Kingdom of Siam and documented his work in the famous “Du Royaume de Siam“.
During the Burmese–Siamese War, Muay Boran was used as a hand to hand practical fighting technique during battles.
Over the years, Muay Thai developed into a popular combat sport in which fighters fought in front of spectators watching for entertainment. Muay Thai bouts gradually became an integral part of local celebrations and festivals. To this day, Muay Thai fights are still held at local festivals and celebrations at temples around Thailand.
The Evolution Of Modern Muay Thai
In this next section, we look at a timeline of the development of Muay Thai and how the martial art has evolved into the combat sport we know and love today.
1909-1910: King Chulalongkorn formally established Muay Boran by rewarding the victors at the funeral fights for his son.
Many people claim this to be the date when Muay Thai was officially established.
1913: British boxing was introduced into the curriculum of the Suan Kulap College. The first reference of the use of the term “Muay Thai”.
1919: Muay Thai and British boxing were taught in the curriculum of the Suan Kulap College.
1921: The first permanent ring was erected in Siam at Suan Kulap College. The ring was used for both British boxing and Muay Thai as they were both taught in the curriculum.
1923: The first international Muay Thai stadium was built (Suan Sanuk Stadium). The ring held fights for both Muay Thai and international boxing events.
1925–1935: During the reign of King Rama VII, he pushed for codified rules for Muay Thai.
Some of the first Muay Thai rules introduced include:
- Fighters began wearing groin guards and boxing gloves. Before the introduction of gloves, fighters wrapped their hands in rope-binding (khat chueak) that made their hands hardened and dangerous.
- Similar to boxing, Muay Thai bouts took place over a set number of rounds.
- Referees were introduced to ensure the safety of fighters.
Before this period, “Muay Thai” was known as “Muay Boran”. To this day, “Muay Boran” is still performed during exhibition events.
1939: Rajadanerm Boxing stadium opened. Along with Lumpinee Stadium, Rajadamnern is one of the two main Muay Thai stadiums in Thailand. The stadium features some of the best Muay Thai bouts in the world.
1954: Lumpinee opened its doors for the first time. Only the Rajadamnern Stadium championship belt rivals the prestige of holding the “Muay Thai Champion of Lumpinee”. Lumpinee boxing stadium is run by the Thai Army, with proceeds from the events going towards the armed services.
