Different Forms of Muay
Development of Muay
Different forms of Muay (boxing) developed concurrently in the various regions of SE Asia. Thailand’s neighbours, Burma, Laos and Cambodia all practice there own legitimate forms of Muay which are similar to Thailand's celebrated Muay Thai, though their are differences. The sport in these countries is less developed in terms of competitions and training opportunities than in Thailand, but the fighting forms all have an ancient tradition. A Muay Burma contest and a Muay Laos contest are held every year in Thailand near to the respective borders at Mae Sot and Nong Kai.
Burmese Boxing
In Burma the ring sport is known as Leth Wei, and it dates back to the ninth century. The rules are similar to those of Muay Thai, the major difference being that competitors fight in the old style without boxing gloves. Instead of the protective boxing gloves worn by Muay Thai fighters, Leth Wei contestants wrap their hands in long strips of hemp rope or gauze cloth (known in Thailand as Muay Kaad Chuek). Head butts and throws are allowed. Fights, lasting five rounds of three minutes each, are decided by surrender or knockout. If both contestants are still standing at the end of the bout it is declared a draw. Even a knockout doesn’t necessarily end a fight. Contestants are frequently revived and sent back into the fray. Three successive knockouts are enough, though, to bring a fight to its bloody end. In colonial times, Leth Wei was banned, but when Burma won its independence it was readmitted to the sporting calendar. It became a fixture at festivals and sports events, and Leth Wei gyms opened up all over the country. There’s little chance though of the sport winning international recognition, so long as boxing gloves aren’t worn and while dangerous head butts are allowed.
Khmer Boxing
Cambodian kickboxing known as Pradal Serey (literally meaning free fighting) is virtually identical to Muay Thai, and bouts are often held between Thai and Cambodian contestants. The Khmer Rouge banned the sport just as Muay Thai was becoming internationally popular, adding to Cambodia’s isolation. Now it’s firmly back on the sports agenda, and kickboxing gyms are opening up throughout the country. It is believed by the Cambodians that Pradal Serey historically precedes Muay Thai, and there has been much debate of the true origins of the sport.
Malaysian Boxing
Tomoi is the Malaysian name for the Thai martial art of Muay Thai. It refers to siku lutut which in Malay means elbows and knees. Tomoi is usually practised as a recreational martial arts sport, particularly in Northern Malaysia, alongside traditional Silat.
