Editing Muay Thai (section)

== History ==
===7th century===
[[File:Hermit-sakkatanta-wat-khao-samo-khon-lopburi-thailand.jpg|thumb|200px|Statue of hermit ''Sukatanata'', the Muay Thai martial art's progenitor, located at Khao Samo Khon hermitage, [[Lopburi province]], Thailand, as recorded in the ''Yonok Chronicle''<ref name="yonok-chronicle-1961"/>]]

The earliest origin of Muay Thai dates back to the 657 AD [[Haripuñjaya]] period<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|17}} of a hermit named ''Sukatanata'' who established his school of liberal and martial arts consisting of Muay Thai, which will be mentioned in order of history compiled officially by The Institute of the Art of Muay Thai, Department of Physical Education National Stadium of Thailand (DPE).

From 738 AD in the [[Nanzhao]] period. Muay Thai had been trained from variant movements of dance; ''Fon jerng''<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|21}} or ''jerng'' means "tactics" or "finesse",<ref>Mianlamai, Soonyata and Mongkolrat, Tayud. (2022, 25 October). "[https://www.thailandfoundation.or.th/culture_heritage/jerng-the-martial-art-of-northern-thailand/ Jerng: The Martial Art of Northern Thailand]." ''Thailand Foundation''. Retrieved 26 January 2025.</ref> ({{langx|th|ฟ้อนเจิง}}) included weapons and bare hands, showing the art of men's fighting, which is similar to [[Lei tai]] due to the war engagement with China for a long time. It is said to be the earliest stage of Thai people forming, and Muay Thai had been training for generations along the ''Fon jerng'' dance. The ''Fon jerng'' also became one of the recreational [[Dance in Thailand|Thai classical dances]] in [[Northern Thailand]], existing nowadays.<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|20}}

=== 10th century ===
[[File:Inside the Ubosot, Wat Ming Mueang ภายในอุโบสถวัดมิ่งเมือง - Lavachakkaraj.jpg|thumb|The mural paintings of King Lavachakkaraj inside the Ubosot, Wat Ming Mueang in [[Nan province]], Thailand.]]

After the Northern Tai people, led by King Lavachakkaraj,<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|29}} who ruled the town of Fang ({{langx|th|เมืองฝาง}}) (now [[Uttaradit province]], Thailand), founded the [[Singhanavati]] Kingdom, known as Yonoknakhon (757–1188), they continued to expand their territory by seizing and establishing kingdoms, such as the [[Lan Na Kingdom]], [[Phayao Kingdom]], Haripuñjaya, and [[Lampang province|Lampang]].

From 947 AD onward, they conquered various ethnic groups, including the [[Khom]] ethnic groups, aboriginal Siamese (known as Siam-asli, Saimi-mandala,<ref>Sirgar, D.C. (1971). "Puranic List of Rivers," [https://ia601408.us.archive.org/12/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.220341/2015.220341.Studies-In_text.pdf ''Studies in the Geography of Ancient and Medieval India'']. (2nd ed.). Delhi; Varanasi; Patna: Motilal Banarsidass; Shri Jainendra Press. p. 66.</ref> Siamese Lavo, [[Xiān]], or Siam at that time), and Mon-Khmer in the upper part of the [[Chao Phraya River]] basin, using their martial arts skills (Muay). The Tai people then moved down northwest and successfully established the [[Sukhothai Kingdom]]<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|29}} (1238–1438) under the rule of King [[Si Inthrathit]], who was a descendant of King [[Phrom]], a descendant of the Singhanavati Dynasty (King Lavachakkaraj). This is mentioned in the folklore, ''the Legend of Singhanavati''.

The ''Mungrai Customary Law 1296 CE'' (Mungraiyashastra), one of the oldest palm-leaf manuscripts written in the [[Northern Thai language]] during the reign of King [[Mangrai]], who established the town of [[Chiang Mai]] (1292–1311),<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|31}} also mentioned the Tai martial arts (Muay) in section 7, under the article of 18 types of quarrels,<ref>Pin-ngern, Chappana. (2008). [https://cmudc.library.cmu.ac.th/frontend/Info/item/dc:31236 ''The CMU Research: Kan pariwat lae wi khro nuea ha kot mai mangrai sat chabap wat maek hue การปริวรรตและวิเคราะห์เนื้อหากฎหมายมังรายศาสตร์ฉบับวัดแม่คือ''] [Wat Mae Khue version: The Transliteration and Analytical Study of Mangrai customary law] (in Thai). Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai University. pp. 81, 97–8.</ref> for the first time in the Lan Na Kingdom. In the folklore, ''the Legend of the Phayao Kingdom'' (1094–1338), the version by Wat Sriboonrueng mentioned the Tai martial arts (Muay) known as ''jerng tiw khui''<ref>Committee of Academic Document Publishing in Celebration of the 60th Anniversary of Chiang Mai Teachers College. (1984). ''Lanna kap kan sueksa baep mai ล้านนากับการศึกษาแบบใหม่'' [Lanna: The New Historical Study] (in Thai). Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai Teachers College. p. 37. {{ISBN|9789748150062}} cited in the Legend of the Phayao Kingdom, p. 32. :– "ไนเมิงภะยาวที่นั้นคํเรียนเชิงช้าง เชิงม้า เชิงหอก เชิงดาบ เชิงฟ้อน เชิงป้า เชิงตีลคุย (ต่อยมวย ป้องกันตัว) สพพเพส บํหลอแล คันขุนจอมตนพ่อตายแล้ว ขุนเจิงคํได้กินเมิงภะยาว."</ref> during the reign of King Chueang Maharat (1115–1162).

=== 13th century ===
During the Pre-Ayutthaya era (Ayodhya period) before 1351, the ''Royal Chronicle of the North'' documented King Uthong's{{refn|group=Note|Not be confused with King Uthong who established the Ayutthaya Kingdom in 1351 CE.}} importation of Muay boxers from the city of Sri Phalo (now [[Chonburi province]], Thailand) to the city-state of Ayodhya. This occurred during his reign from 1253 to 1289,<ref name="FADTH.1958">The Fine Arts Department of Thailand. (1958). [[:File:พงศาวดารเหนือ - ๒๕๐๑.pdf|''Phraratchaphongsawadan Nuea พระราชพงศาวดารเหนือ'']] [Royal Chronicle of the North, version by Phra Wichianpricha (Noi)] (in Thai). Bangkok: Thai Khasem. pp. 124–5.</ref> and a Muay boxing match between a Siamese boxer and a Chinese boxer also took place during the late reign of King Suwanracha, who ruled Ayodhya from 1301 to 1310.<ref name="FADTH.1958"/> Furthermore, the Siam-Thai of Ayutthaya (known as Gywan and Siam-Asli) launched an attack on the [[Thaton kingdom]] in 1056 CE. They expanded their territory southward and used their martial arts skills (Muay) to penetrate deep into the [[Malay Peninsula]] before 1160 CE. These events are recorded in various historical sources, including the Burmese chronicle, ''[[Hmannan Yazawin]]'', the ''Malay annals'' (Sulalatus Salatin), and the ''History of the Malay Kingdom of Patani'' (Sejarah Kerajaan Melayu Patani).<ref>Multiple sources:
* Syukri, Ibrahim. (1985). [https://archive.org/details/historyofmalayki0000ibra/page/6/mode/2up ''History of the Malay Kingdom of Patani (Sejarah Kerajaan Melayu Patani)'']. (Translated by Conner Bailey and John N. Miksic). The Monographs in International Studies Southeast Asia, No. 68. Athens, OH: Center for International Studies, Ohio University. p. 7. {{ISBN|0896801233}}
* The Text Publication Fund of the Burma Research Society. (1923). [https://ia904706.us.archive.org/4/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.81533/2015.81533.The-Glass-Palace-Chronicle-Of-The-Kings-Of-Burma_text.pdf ''Glass Palace Chronicle of the Kings of Burma'']. (Translated by Pe Maung Tin and G.H. Luce). London: Oxford University Press. p. 106.
* Thompson, Peter Anthony. (1910). ''Siam: An Account of the Country and the People''. Boston, MA; Tokyo: J.B. Millet Company. p. 22. {{LCCN|10-30568}} {{OL|6525212M}}
* Cœdès, George. "[https://www.persee.fr/doc/befeo_0336-1519_1925_num_25_1_3044 Documents sur l'Histoire Politique et Religieuse du Laos Occidental]," ''Bulletin de l'École française d'Extrême-Orient'' 25(1925): 24. {{doi|10.3406/befeo.1925.3044}} {{ISSN|1760-737X}} "Le Hmannan Yazawin (trad. Maung Tin et Luce, pp. 99 et 106) place les Gywam au Sud-Est des Birmans et dit que leur contrée est aussie appelée Arawsa ou Ayoja,c'est-à-dire Ayudhya = le Siam."
* Giles, Francis H. "[https://thesiamsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/JSS_030_3b_Giles_AnalysisOfVanVlietsAccountContinued.pdf Analysis of Van Vliet's Account of Siam, Part Eight: Concerning Titles in Siam]," ''The Journal of the Siam Society'' 30(3)(1938): 332. "Arawsa is undoubtedly Ayocha (Ayudhya) and the Gyawns are descendants of the Thai Yuan who accompanied Prince Phromkuman of Yonoknakhon in his victorious war against the Khom when he came as far South as Khamphaengsaen."</ref>

During the [[Sukhothai Kingdom]] from 1238 to 68, Muay Thai was highly regarded as an art form and was even included in the curriculum for members of the royal family. It was seen as a way to train brave warriors with exceptional physical fitness, as well as prepare them for leadership and warfare against neighboring kingdoms.<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|39}} King [[Si Inthrathit]] sent his second son, aged 13, Prince [[Ram Khamhaeng]], to study [[Dharma]], liberal arts, and martial arts (Muay) at the Samo Khon School in Lawapura town (now [[Lopburi province]], Thailand), [[Lavo Kingdom]]. It was here that Prince Ram Khamhaeng formed a close bond with Prince Ngam Mueang, who would later become the King of [[Phayao Kingdom]] in 1258,<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|20}} as mentioned in the ''Yonok Chronicles'':

{{Blockquote|text={{lang|en|King Ngam Mueang of the Phayao Kingdom was the son of the ninth king, King Ming Mueang. He was a descendant of King Chom Tham, who was the son of King Khun Ngearn of [[Ngoenyang]]. At the age of 14, he received training in the principles of Brahman's sorcery<ref>Supreme Patriarch [[Paramanuchitchinorot]], Phra Thepmoli (Klin), Chao Phraya Phra Khlang (Hon) and Phraya Thamprecha (Bun). (1971). ''Wannakhadi Mahawetsandon Chadok (Chabap Thet Mahachat 13 Kan)'' [Literature of The Vessantara Jãtaka (13 Chapters of Mahachati Preaching version] ''วรรณคดีมหาเวสสันดรชาดก (ฉบับเทศน์มหาชาติ 13 กัณฑ์)'' (in Thai). พิมพ์เป็นอนุสรณ์ในงานพระราชทานเพลิงศพพระธรรมเจดีย์ (เทียบ ธมฺมธโร ป.ธ.๓) ณ ฌาปนกิจสถานคุรุสภา วัดสระเกศราชวรมหาวิหาร จังหวัดพระนคร วันอาทิตย์ที่ ๒๔ กุมภาพันธ์ พุทธศักราช ๒๕๑๔. Bangkok: Chuan Phim. p. 352.</ref> at Thep Isitana School, Khao Doi Duan.{{refn|group=Note|Khao Doi Duan is located in the [[Chiang Rai province]], Thailand.}} He then continued his training in liberal and martial arts (Muay) with the same instructor who had also taught King Ram Khamhaeng in Lawapura. After turning 16, he attended the Samo Khon School, established by a hermit named Sukatanata. It was here that he became comrades with King Ram Khamhaeng of Sukhothai, as they had both trained under the same instructor.<ref name="yonok-chronicle-1961">The Fine Arts Department of Thailand. (1961). ''The Yonok Chronicles : Version by National Library of Thailand compiled by Phraya Prachakitjakonjak (Chaem Bunnag) 1935 AD''. Bangkok: Silpa Bannakan. p. 270.</ref>}}{{refn|group=Note|The original text is written in Thai: พระยางำเมืองเจ้านครพะเยาตนนี้ เป็นบุตรพระยามิ่งเมืองผู้ครองเมืองพะเยาลำดับที่ ๙ ตั้งแต่ขุนจอมธรรมเป็นต้นมา [...] เมื่อเจริญชนมายุได้ ๑๔ ปี ได้เรียนศาสตรเพทกับเทพอิสิตนอยู่ ณ ภูเขาดอยด้วน ครั้นชนมายุได้ ๑๖ ปี ไปเรียนศิลปในสำนักพระสุกทันตฤๅษี ณ กรุงละโว้ อาจารย์เดียวกันกับสมเด็จพระร่วงเจ้ากรุงสุโขทัย เหตุดังนั้นพระยางำเมืองกับสมเด็จพระร่วงเจ้ากรุงสุโขทัยจึงได้เป็นสหายแก่กัน<ref name="yonok-chronicle-1961"/>}}
|multiline=yes
|author=
|source=''The Yonok Chronicles'': Version by the National Library of Thailand (1961).
}}

The Samo Khon school was founded in 657 AD during the [[Haripuñjaya]] period<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|17}} by a hermit named Sukatanata ({{langx|th|พระฤๅษีสุกกะทันตะ}}). He taught a variety of subjects, collectively known as ''Maiya Shastra'' (ಮೈಶಾಸ್ತ್ರ), which included martial arts (Muay), sword fighting, archery, and elephant and horse control. One of the most notable alumni of the school was King Mangrai. The Hermitage of Sukatanata still exists today and can be accessed at Wat Khao Samo Khon in Lopburi province, Thailand.<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|17,18,151}}

King Ram Khamhaeng also composed a war strategy manual during his reign that also mentioned Muay Thai.<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|40}} Later, King [[Maha Thammaracha I]] was trained in essential subjects as well as practical skills, including martial arts (Muay) for self-defense with bare hands and the use of weapons. Muay Thai was also taught at temples, which served as learning centers for the Tai peoples, following the guidelines of King Ram Khamhaeng's war strategy manual.<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|42}}

===15th century===
In 1431 AD,<ref>[[Damrong Rajanubhab]]. (1907). [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:%E0%B8%9E%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B0%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%8A%E0%B8%9E%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%A9%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%AF_%E0%B8%89%E0%B8%9A%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%9A%E0%B8%AB%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%A7%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%9B%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B0%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%90%E0%B8%AF_-_%E0%B9%92%E0%B9%94%E0%B9%95%E0%B9%90.pdf ''Phraratchaphongsawadan krung kao chabap luang prasoet akson nit''] [Royal Chronicle of Ayutthaya: Luang Prasoet Akson Nit Version] พระราชพงษาวดารกรุงเก่า ฉบับหลวงประเสริฐอักษรนิติ์ (in Thai). Bangkok: Rong Pim Thai. pp. 3–4.</ref> King [[Borommarachathirat II]], the King of [[Ayutthaya Kingdom]], led Siamese forces and included groups of Siamese boxers to assault the Khmers plundering Angkor Thom, also known as the [[Fall of Angkor]] in 1431. King Borommarachathirat II built an inscription of Khun Sri Chaiya Raj Mongkol Thep for the victory monument and Siamese warriors' commemoration, which inscribed a list of Siamese warriors and assault record in the inscription after the Angkor had already been captured, as well as written in ''A Lost Chronicle of Ayutthaya'' by Michael Vickery, stanzas 9–11.<ref>Vickery M. (1977). [https://web.archive.org/web/20240527002834/https://thesiamsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/1977/03/JSS_065_1b_Vickery_2K125FragmentLostChronicleOfAyutthaya.pdf "The 2/K.125 Fragment, A Lost Chronicle of Ayutthaya,"] ''Journal of the Siam Society'', 65(1):10–11, 12–13.</ref>

The inscription of Khun Sri Chaiya Raj Mongkol Thep (N.M. 78, Face 2) 1431 AD reads:

{{Blockquote|text={{lang|en|King Borommarachathirat II of Ayutthaya commanded his warrior, Khun Sri Chaiya Raj Mongkol Thep, to march four military forces to assault [[Angkor Thom]], [[Phimai Historical Park|Phimai]], and [[Phanom Rung Historical Park|Phanom Rung]] to become states under his endless mandate. The King then assigned Khun Sri Chaiya Raj Mongkol Thep, groups of Siamese boxers (Muay), and military forces with elephants and horse battalions to the retreat procession to the Kingdom of Ayutthaya.<ref name="Phakdikham.2014">Phakdikham S. (2014). Yutthamakkha: senthang dœn thap Thai-Khamen [Yutthamakka: Marching Route of Thai forces to Khamen] ยุทธมรรคา เส้นทางเดินทัพไทยเขมร (in Thai). Bangkok: Matichon. p. 69. {{ISBN|978-974-0-21342-0}} {{LCCN|2014314690}}</ref>{{refn|group=Note|The original text is transliterated in Thai: สมเด็จพระอินทรามหาบรมจักรพรรดิธรรมิกราชเป็นเจ้าให้ขุนศรีไชยราชมงคลเทพเอาจตุรงค์ช้างม้ารี้พลไปโจมจับพระนครพิมายพนมรุ้งเป็นราชเสมาแลราบทาบดังพระมโนสากัลป์แลจึงจะละพระราชเสาวนีย์หาขุนศรีไชยราชมงคลเทพแดฝูงมวยลูกขุนทั้งหลาย เอาช้างม้ารี้พลถอยคืนมา<ref name="Phakdikham.2014"/>}}}}
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|author=King Borommarachathirat II
|source=the inscription of Khun Sri Chaiya Raj Mongkol Thep (1431)
}}

From 1455 AD in the Ayutthaya period, Muay Thai was officially integrated with Siamese royal courts of Ayutthaya<ref>Siyaphai, K. (2007). ''Pritud Muay Thai ปริทัศน์มวยไทย'' (in Thai). Bangkok: Matichon. p. 18. {{ISBN|978-974-3-23910-6}}</ref> called The King's Guard Department ({{langx|th|กรมทนายเลือก}})<ref>The Royal Vajirajan Library by Order of H.R.H. Prince [[Damrong Rajanubhab]]. (1964). ''The Concise of Royal Chronicle Vol. 14 (Chapter 22-25) of the Characteristics of ancient Military Conscription ประชุมพงศาวดาร เล่ม ๑๔ (ประชุมพงศาวดาร ภาคที่ ๒๒-๒๕) เรื่อง ลักษณะเกณฑ์ทหารอย่างโบราณ'' (in Thai). Bangkok: Kuru Sa Pha. p. 138.</ref> since the reign of King [[Borommatrailokkanat]] enacted the Law of the Military and Provincial Hierarchy 1998 BE (1455 AD),<ref>Chalermtiarana, T. et al. (2016). ''The Palace law of Ayutthaya and the Thammasat Law and Kingship in Siam: Studies on Southeast Asia Series No. 69''. Ithaca, NY: Cornell Southeast Asia Program Publications. p. 5. {{ISBN|978-087-7-27769-9}}</ref> which consisted of two director generals with noble titles, Khun Phakdeeasa ({{langx|th|ขุนภักดีอาสา}}) and Khun Yothaphakdee ({{langx|th|ขุนโยธาภักดี}}) in the hierarchy. There were countless skilled Siamese boxers in The King's Unarmed Guard Division ({{langx|th|กรมนักมวย}}),<ref>Damrong Thammasan (Mi), Luang. (1899). ''Kotmai mai prakat phraratchabanyat kao mai sung khong chai yu nai patyuban ni Vol. 1''. Bangkok: Bamrungnukunkit. p. 226.</ref> a sub-division of The King's Guard Department, picked from competition by the king to be his private guards and patrol the royal palace as major missions.<ref>Ministry of Education Thailand, Division of Culture. ''Warasan Watthanatham Thai'', 8(1968):36.
* Kritphet, T., Thai Studies Center, Chulalongkorn University Thailand. (1994). ''Phatthanakan khong phalasuksa nai Prathet Thai rawang Pho. So. 2325-2525. Part 1''. Bangkok: Chulalongkorn University. p. 37.</ref> The boxing competitions occur in peace situations as well as to safeguard the king at war.

There was also the law mentioned of Muay in the reign of King [[Ekathotsarot]] (1590–1605), called Miscellaneous Laws (Phra Aiyakan Betset),<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|48}} which states:

{{Blockquote|text={{lang|en|CLAUSE 117: ARTICLE I. Second-class people who fight by boxing (Muay) or wrestling, which then results in injuries or death, cannot be penalized...<ref name="dpe-2016"/>{{rp|48}}{{refn|group=Note|In Thai: 117 มาตราหนึ่ง ชนชั้นสองเป็นเอกจิกเอกฉันท์ตีมวยด้วยกันก็ดี แลปล้ำกันก็ดี แลผู้หนึ่งต้องเจ็บปวดก็ดี ขั้นหักถึงแก่มรณภาพก็ดี ท่านว่าหามีโทษมิได้...<ref>Muntalumpa M. (2018). ''Problems of Legal Issues and Enforcement of Boxing Sport Act B.E. 2542 : Study on Corruption and Qualification of People in Thai Boxing Circle''. [Master Dissertation Sripatum University School of Law, Bangkok]. Sripatum University Repository: [http://dspace.spu.ac.th/handle/123456789/5527 http://dspace.spu.ac.th/handle/123456789/5527]. p. 40.</ref>}}}}
|multiline=yes
|author= Phra Aiyakan Betset enacted by King Ekathotsarot
|source=The Three Seals Law (Tra Samduang Law 1978: 438-439)
}}

The well-known Siamese boxers during the Ayutthaya period include King [[Naresuan]], King [[Suriyenthrathibodi]], and Nai Khanom Tom.

===16th century===

According to history, Muay Thai have been developed by the Siamese army as a form of self-defense and to date back at least to the 13th century, according to King Ram Khamhaeng's war strategics manual. In Ayutthaya Kingdom, the war strategics manual was recomposed in 1518<ref>[[Damrong Rajanubhab]]. (1963). ''The Concise of Royal Chronicle Vol. 1 (The Concise Chronicle Chapter 1 the First Part) : Reign of King Ramathibodi II ประชุมพงศาวดาร เล่ม ๑ (ประชุมพงศาวดาร ภาคที่ ๑ ตอนต้น) : แผ่นดินสมเด็จพระราชาธิบดีที่ ๒''. Bangkok: Kuru Sa Pha. p. 140.</ref> by King [[Ramathibodi II]] called ''Tamra Phichaisongkram'' ({{langx|th|ตำราพิชัยสงคราม}}).

[[File:Wat Suwan Dararam wihan - inside - 2017-02-13 (076).jpg|thumb|The mural paintings of the martial play of [[Naresuan]], the crown prince of Ayutthaya, with [[Mingyi Swa]], the crown prince of Taungoo, in 1565 CE]]

King [[Naresuan]] practiced martial arts and rearranged his soldiers for 15 years at peacetime.<ref name="concise-chronicle-1966">[[Damrong Rajanubhab]]. (1966). ''The Concise of The Royal Chronicle Vol. 23 The Legend of Military Conscription and The Legend of 4th Infantry Division : The Chronicle of King Naresuan's Military Affairs ประชุมพงศาวดาร ภาคที่ ๒๓ ตำนานการเกณฑ์ทหาร กับตำนานกรมทหารราบที่ ๔ : ว่าด้วยเรื่องพงศาวดารตอนทหารสมเด็จพระนเรศวร'' (in Thai). Bangkok: Phra Chan. p. 33.</ref> He had learned warrior fighting techniques from Burmese royal courts after he was raised on his age 9 by King [[Bayinnaung]] for 6 years in Burma after the invasion by Bayinnaung's army to Ayutthaya Kingdom in the [[Burmese–Siamese War (1563–1564)]].<ref name="concise-chronicle-1966"/> King Naresuan also improved the war strategics manual version of King Ramathibodi II to the version of King Naresuan after he was backed to Ayutthaya Kingdom<ref name="concise-chronicle-1966"/> to be capable of self-defense in war engagements during his reign.

In 1687, [[Simon de la Loubère]], a French diplomat to Siam of King [[Louis XIV]], handwrote that Muay Thai was one of the occupations of Siamese people in his famous book, ''[[Du Royaume de Siam]]'', during the reign of King [[Narai]], which reads:

{{Blockquote|text={{lang|fr|La chaleur du climat fait en eux affez de diſſipation. La lutte, & le combat à coups de poing ou de coude y ſont des mêtiers de batteleur. La courſe des balons eſt donc leur ſeul exercice.|}}<ref>La Loubère, Simon de. (1691). « De la Muſique, & des Exercices du Corps. », ''DU ROYAUME DE SIAM : Envoyé extraordinaire du ROY auprès du Roy de Siam en 1687 & 1688, TOME PREMIER''. Paris: Chez Abraham Wolfgang, près de la Bourſe. pp. 211–212.</ref>
(Translation): Hot weather weakened the Siamese people to be tired. Wrestling and fighting with fists or elbows (Muay Thai) were just their occupations. Thence, paddling courses were only their exercises.
|multiline=yes
|author=[[Simon de la Loubère]]
|source=Du Royaume de Siam : Envoyé extraordinaire du ROY auprès du Roy de Siam en 1687 & 1688
}}

In 1698, according to the second French mission to Siam by King Louis XIV, who after appointed [[Guy Tachard]] to be in charge of the French ambassador to Siam. Muay Thai was being trained to prepare for an engagement with a French expeditionary force after the Dutch captain informed the Siamese Royal Court of the news about French battleships to siege [[Puducherry (city)|Puducherry]] and [[Myeik, Myanmar|Myeik]] seaports of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya in the reign of King [[Phetracha]] after the [[Siamese revolution of 1688]].<ref name="collection-chronicles-21"/>

''Monsieur Braud's letter to Directors of the International Affairs Kingdom of Ayutthaya (June 9, 1699)'' reads:

{{Blockquote|text={{lang|en|This news caused vassals of the Siamese Royal Court to be suddenly shocked. King Phetracha then announced the force recruitment to train fighting techniques such as wrestling, muay, [[krabi-krabong]], and many others. These training courses carried a heavy burden on the veterans.<ref name="collection-chronicles-21">"จดหมายมองซิเออร์โบรด์ถึงผู้อำนวยการคณะการต่างประเทศ กรุงศรีอยุธยา วันที่ ๙ เดือนมิถุนายน ค.ศ. ๑๖๙๙ (พ.ศ. ๒๒๔๒) เรื่องบาทหลวงตาชาร์ดกลับมาอีกครั้ง ๑", ''A Collection of Royal Chronicles Vol. 21 (Chapter 35 and 36): Archives of French missionaries of the Missions Etrangères de Paris arrived in Siam during King Narai's reign''. Bangkok: Kuru Sa Pha. pp. 206–207.</ref>{{refn|group=Note|In Thai: ข่าวอันนี้ได้ทำให้ข้าราชการในราชสำนักตกใจเป็นอันมาก พระเจ้ากรุงสยามจึงได้ตั้งต้นเกณฑ์คนฝึกหัดการต่าง ๆ บางทีหัดให้ปล้ำกัน บางทีหัดให้ต่อยมวย บางทีหัดกระบี่กระบอง และหัดการต่าง ๆ ชนิดนี้อีกหลายอย่าง การฝึกเหล่านี้ได้ทำให้ขุนนางข้าราชการมีงานมากขึ้น<ref name="collection-chronicles-21"/>}}}}
|multiline=yes
|author=Monsieur Braud
|source=Letter to Directors of the International Affairs Kingdom of Ayutthaya (June 9, 1699)
}}

===18th century===
In the 1702 reign of King [[Suriyenthrathibodi]]. The king questioned his vassals about the Siamese people festival held outside the boundary of Ayutthaya Royal Palace. The government official responded to the king that the temple fair will be held at Khwaeng Wiset Chai Chan<ref name="royal-chronicle-2015"/>{{rp|283}} (now [[Ang Thong province]], Thailand). Tomorrow, there are Buddhist monastery celebrations, grand competitions, and amusements. King Suriyenthrathibodi then responded back that he had not punched Muay boxing for a long time since enthroned, and he decided to join Muay boxing competitions tomorrow.<ref name="royal-chronicle-2015"/>{{rp|283}}

On the next festival day, King Suriyenthrathibodi disguised himself as the general public with a few royal police and went to the festival by boat to join the Muay boxing competitions, and he won both the first and second matches during the competition, as the ''Royal Chronicle of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya'' reads:

{{Blockquote|text={{lang|en|King Suriyenthrathibodi requested the second match; the boxing referee then rearranged another rival to compete with him. King Suriyenthrathibodi won again among loudly applauded by the general public and got an award for one baht fifty satang. Later, he got on his boat and enjoyed the result of the competition, then went back to Krung Sri Ayutthaya.<ref name="royal-chronicle-2015">''Phraratcha Phongsawadan Chabap Somdet Phra Phonnarat of Wat Phra Chettuphon. Truatsobchamrajagtuakhieant [The Royal Chronicle of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya : Version by Somdet Phra Phonnarat of Wat Phra Chettuphon. checked against original manuscripts.] : [https://dl.parliament.go.th/handle/20.500.13072/522521 พระราชพงศาวดาร ฉบับสมเด็จพระพนรัตน์ วัดพระเชตุพน ตรวจสอบชำระจากเอกสารตัวเขียน]'' (in Thai). Bangkok: Amarin Printing & Publishing, 2015. {{ISBN|978-616-92351-0-1}}</ref>{{rp|283}}{{refn|group=Note|The Royal Chronicle of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya is written in Thai: จึ่งดำรัสให้ข้าหลวงว่าแก่นายสยาม ให้จัดหาคู่มาเปรียบอีก แลนายสนามก็จัดหาคู่มาได้อีกแล้วให้ชกกัน แลคนมวยผู้นั้น ธารบุญมิได้ก็แพ้ในกึ่งยก คนทังหลายสรรเสรีญฝีมือพระหัถมี่ไป แล้วว่ามวยกรุงคนนี้มีฝีมือยี่งนักแลนายสนามก็ตกรางวันให้เหมือนหนหลังนั้น แล้วสมเดจ์พระเจ้าอยู่หัวก็ภาข้าหลวงคืนมาสู่เรือพระธินั่งค่อยสำราญพระราชหฤไท แล้วเสดจ์กลับยังกรุงเทพมหานคร ๚ะ๛<ref name="royal-chronicle-2015"/>}}}}
|multiline=yes
|author= Somdet Phra Phonnarat (Vanaratana) of Wat Pho
|source= The Royal Chronicle of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya: Version by Somdet Phra Phonnarat of Wat Phra Chettuphon (1795)
}}

The ''Royal Chronicle of the Kingdom of Rattanakosin: First Reign'', documents the arrival of two French boxing brothers in Bangkok in 1788.<ref>Chaophraya Thiphakorawong and Damrong Rajanubhab. (1935). "ฝรั่งเข้ามาพะนันชกมวย," [[:File:พงศาวดารกรุงรัตนโกสินทร์ รัชกาลที่ ๑ - ๒๔๗๘.pdf|''Phraratphongsaodan krungratnakosintha ratchakan thi nueng'' [Royal Chronicle of the Kingdom of Rattanakosin: First Reign] ''พระราชพงศาวดาร กรุงรัตนโกสินทร์ รัชกาลที่ ๑'']] (in Thai). Bangkok: Phra Chan. pp.154–56.</ref> They had come to compete in a boxing match for a monetary prize. Seeking to compete with a Siamese boxer, they enlisted the help of an interpreter to convey their request to a Siamese nobleman, [[Chaophraya Phra Khlang (Hon)]]. This nobleman then brought the matter to the attention of King Rama I. The King, in turn, consulted with his younger brother, Prince [[Maha Sura Singhanat]] of the [[Front Palace]], and made a plea:<ref name="wenk.1968"/><ref name="kraithat.1988"/>

<blockquote>Since the foreigners have made a challenge, it would be considered an insult if we did not come up with Thai boxers to compete against them. It would be said that no Thais in all the capital could fight. Our reputation would suffer. The dishonor would spread abroad. I beg you to find a Thai boxer skillful enough to inflict a resounding defeat.<ref name="kraithat.1988">Kraithat, Panya, and Kraitus, Pitisuk. (1988). ''Muay Thai: The Most Distinguished Art of Fighting''. (6th ed.). Phuket: Asia Books. pp. 23–24. {{ISBN|978-974-8-68419-2}}</ref><ref>Howard, Michael C.; Wattanapun, Wattana; and Gordon, Alec. (1998). ''Traditional T'ai Arts in Contemporary Perspective (Studies in Contemporary Thailand No. 7)''. (Originally prepared for a symposium on T'ai Arts held at the 6th International Thai Studies Conference in Chang Mai, October 1996]. Bangkok: White Lotus Press. p. 219. {{ISBN|978-974-8-43428-5}}</ref></blockquote>

[[File:Chintawannakhadi (p 531).jpg|thumb|A painting by [[Hem Vejakorn]] depicts a Frenchman challenging a Siamese man, Muean Phlan, to a boxing match in 1788]]

King Rama I accepted his brother's advice and asked a nobleman to inform the Frenchmen that a match would be arranged with a purse of fifty Chang (equivalent to 4,000 baht at the time).<ref>Patchana Boonpradit. (2010, 3 November). "[http://legacy.orst.go.th/?knowledges=%E0%B8%A1%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%95%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B2%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%99-%E0%B9%93-%E0%B8%9E%E0%B8%A4%E0%B8%A8%E0%B8%88%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A2%E0%B8%99-%E0%B9%92%E0%B9%95 มาตราเงิน]". ''The Thailand Office of the Royal Society''. para. 2. Retrieved on 11 December 2024.</ref> Prince Maha Sura Singhanat personally supervised the construction of a suitable arena and prepared the Siamese boxer.<ref name="wenk.1968"/><ref name="kraithat.1988"/>

On the day of the boxing competition, King Rama I, his younger brother, and many members of the Siamese royal court were present as spectators near the western theater of [[Wat Phra Kaew]]. Prince Maha Sura Singhanat arranged for a Siamese boxer from the Front Palace King's Guard Department named Muean Phlan<ref name="kraithat.1988"/> to compete against the younger of the French brothers. During the match, Muean Phlan constantly evaded his opponent, making it difficult for the younger French brother to get a hold of him. As the elder French brother rushed to assist his younger sibling, Prince Maha Sura Singhanat also joined the fight and knocked the elder brother down. All the umpires rushed to help the Siamese boxer, and the Frenchmen were treated harshly. After Rama I had the two French brothers receive physical therapy, they soon departed.<ref name="wenk.1968"/><ref name="kraithat.1988"/>

=== Folklore of Nai Khanom Tom===
The popular [[folklore|folklore story]] of Nai Khanom Tom is widely celebrated in Thailand and around the world and the character is referred as the "father of Muay Thai." Several scholars have critically examined the legend of Nai Khanom Tom, suggesting it is [[myth|mythological]] rather than historical.<ref name="Vail 1998">{{cite journal|title=Modern Muay Thai Mythology|first=Peter T.|last=Vail |journal=Crossroads: An Interdisciplinary Journal of Southeast Asian Studies |volume=12 |issue=2 |date=1998}}</ref> Scholars suggest that the story of Nai Khanom Tom emerged in the 20th century, coinciding with efforts by Thai cultural institutions to construct a cohesive national identity. During the post-World War II era, figures like [[Luang Wichitwathakan]] played pivotal roles in promoting Thai nationalism, often through the creation and dissemination of cultural myths. The legend of Nai Khanom Tom serves as a case study in the invention of tradition, where folklore is utilized to foster national unity and cultural continuity.<ref name="Reynolds">{{cite book |last=Reynolds |first=Craig J. |title=National Identity and Its Defenders: Thailand, 1939–1989 |publisher=Silkworm Books |year=1991}}</ref><ref name="Baker">{{cite book |last=Baker |first=Chris |author2=Pasuk Phongpaichit |title=A History of Thailand |publisher=Cambridge University Press |year=2009}}</ref>

In his book ''Muay Thai: Inventing Tradition for a National Symbol'', Peter Vail argues that the story has been used to construct Thai national identity and serves more as a cultural symbol than a verifiable historical account.<ref name="Vail">{{cite journal |last=Vail |first=Peter |title=Muay Thai: Inventing Tradition for a National Symbol |journal=Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia |volume=29 |issue=3 |year=2014 |pages=329–356}}</ref> Similarly, historian Craig J. Reynolds, in his 1991 book ''National Identity and Its Defenders: Thailand, 1939–1989'', discusses how Thai historical narratives were shaped in the post-[[World War II]] era to promote national unity, including the elevation of figures like Nai Khanom Tom without historical documentation.<ref name="Reynolds" /> Scholars emphasize the lack of contemporary sources and suggest the legend likely emerged or was amplified during Thailand’s modern nation-building period. 

This historiography was largely extrapolated from brief mentions in written records, including four episodes in the royal chronicles of the 18th century: one where King [[Sanphet VIII]] fought an incognito match at a temple fair, [[Wiset Chai Chan district|Khwaeng Mueang Wiset Chai Chan]] in 1702;<ref name="royal-chronicle-2015"/>{{rp|283}} one where Nai Khanom Tom,<ref name="royal-chronicle-2015"/>{{rp|414}} as a war captive following the [[fall of Ayutthaya]], fought in front of the Burmese king and defeated ten Burmese fighters; one of the military commander [[Phraya Phichai Dap Hak]], who in his youth was a Muay Thai fighter; and one of Muen Phlan, who was chosen by King [[Rama I]] to fight against two French challengers in 1788.<ref name="Vail 1998" /><ref name="wenk.1968">Wenk, Klaus and Stahl, Greeley. "The restoration of Thailand under Rama I, 1782-1809," ''Asian Studies by the University of Arizona Press, Tucson'' 24(1968): 120–121. {{ISBN|978-081-6-50272-1}}</ref>

According to the popular folklore story, in 1767, after the second fall of Ayutthaya Kingdom from the [[Burmese–Siamese War (1765–1767)]], the invading [[Myanmar|Burmese]] troops rounded up thousands of Siamese citizens and brought to Burma. They then organized a seven-day, seven-night religious festival in honor of [[Buddha]]'s relics. The festivities included many forms of entertainment, such as costume plays, comedies, and sword-fighting matches. King [[Hsinbyushin]] wanted to see how Thai fighters would compare to his fighters. Nai Khanom Tom was selected to fight against the King's chosen champion, and the boxing ring was set up in front of the throne. When the fight began, Nai Khanom Tom charged out, using punches, kicks, elbows, and knees to pummel his opponent until he collapsed.The King supposedly asked if Nai Khanom Tom would fight nine other Burmese champions to prove himself. He agreed and fought one after the other with no rest periods. His last opponent was a great kickboxing teacher from [[Rakhine State]] whom Nai Khanom Tom defeated with kicks.<ref name="royal-chronicle-2015"/>{{rp|414}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.martialartsthailand.com/nai-khanom-tom-father-of-muay-thai/|title=Nai Khanom Tom: Father of Muay Thai|access-date=2020-07-09|archive-date=2020-06-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200627083928/https://www.martialartsthailand.com/nai-khanom-tom-father-of-muay-thai/|url-status=dead}}</ref> 

To commemorate the story of Nai Khanom Tom, the Muay Thai Festival and Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony are staged annually every year on March 17 as "Muay Thai Day" in Thailand.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wmcmuaythai.org/2012/02/20/spain-pays-respect-to-nai-kanom-tom|title=Spain Pays Respect to Nai Kanom Tom|date=2012-02-20|access-date=2013-05-11|archive-date=19 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170619232455/http://www.wmcmuaythai.org/2012/02/20/spain-pays-respect-to-nai-kanom-tom|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Gourley">{{cite web |url=https://berniegourley.com/2015/08/03/the-legend-of-nai-khanomtom-hero-of-muay-thai/ |title=The Legend of Nai Khanomtom: Hero of Muay Thai |author=Bernie Gourley |date=August 3, 2015 |website=berniegourley.com}}</ref><ref name="KBR">{{cite web |url=https://en.kokusaibujinrenmei.org/Blogs/history-masters-martial-arts/nai-khanom-tom-legacy-muay-thai-mastery |title=Nai Khanom Tom: Legacy and Mastery in Muay Thai |website=Kokusai Bujin Renmei |access-date=May 12, 2025}}</ref> 

[[File:งานรำลึกนายขนมต้ม 2560.jpg|right|thumb|Every year on March 17, Thailand celebrates ''Nai Khanom Tom'' day.]]

King Hsinbyushin was allegedly so impressed that he remarked in ''The Royal Chronicle of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya'':<ref name="royal-chronicle-2015"/>{{rp|414}}

{{Blockquote|text=''While King Hsinbyushin of Burma was residing at [[Yangon]] to raise an umbrella crown of the [[Shwedagon Pagoda]] for celebration, a Burmese nobleman informed him of a Siamese-skilled muay thai man. The King then stated a royal order to arrange for a Siamese man named Nai Khanom Tom, a famous fighter from Ayutthaya, to confront a Burmese boxer in front of the throne. The first round, the latter collapsed by Nai Khanom Tom, and the other round he confronted nine and ten other Burmese boxers. King Hsinbyushin was applauding him and said that Siamese was in a dangerous situation, but he could confront opponents up to nine and ten while unarmed. Because of King of Ayutthaya's negligent behavior that caused the aftermath of Ayutthaya Kingdom, the kingdom could stay if he's good. King Hsinbyushin then royally rewarded Nai Khanom Tom as should.''<ref name="damrong.1962">[[Damrong Rajanubhab]]. (1962). ''Phraratcha Phongsawadan Chabap Phraratcha Hathalekha Lem 2 [The Royal Chronicle of Letters by the King's Own Hand Volume 2]. พระราชพงศาวดาร ฉบับพระราชหัตถเลขา เล่ม 2'' (in Thai). (2nd ed.) Bangkok: OdiantStore. p. 384.</ref><ref name="royal-chronicle-2015"/>{{rp|414}}{{refn|group=Note|In Thai: ฝ่ายพระเจ้าอังวะยังอยู่ ณะ เมืองย่างกุ้ง ทำการยกฉัตรยอดพระมหาเจดีย์เกษธาตุสำเรจ์แล้วให้มีการฉลอง จึ่งขุนนางพม่ากราบทูลว่า คนมวยเมืองไทมีฝีมือดียิ่งนัก จึ่งตรัสสั่งให้จัดหามาได้นายขนมต้มคนหนึ่ง เปนมวยดีมีฝีมือแต่ครั้งกรุงเก่า เอาตัวมาถวายพระเจ้าอังวะ พระเจ้าอังวะจึ่งให้จัดพม่าคนมวยเข้ามาเปรียบกับนายขนมต้มได้กันแล้ว ก็ให้ชกกันหน้าพระธินั่ง แลนายขนมต้มชกพม่าไม่ทันถึ่งยกก็แพ้ แล้วจัดคนอื่นเข้ามาเปรียบชกอิก นายขนมต้มชกพม่าชกมอญแพ้ถึ่งเก้าคนสิบคนสู้ไม่ได้ พระเจ้าอังวะทอดพระเนตรยกพระหัตถ์ตบพระอุระตรัสสรรเสรีญฝีมือนายขนมต้มว่า ไทมีพิศม์อยู่ทั่วตัว แต่มือเปล่าไม่มีอาวุธเลยยังสู้ได้ คนเดียวชณะถึ่งเก้าคนสิบคนฉนี้ เพราะจ้าวนายไม่ดีจึ่งเสียบ้านเมืองแก่ข้าศึก ถ้าจ้าวนายดีแล้วไหนเลยจะเสียกรุงศรีอยุทธยา แล้วพระราชทานรางวัลแก่นายขนมต้มโดยสมควร<ref name="damrong.1962"/>}}}}<ref>{{cite book|author=Somdet Phra Phonnarat (Vanaratana) of [[Wat Pho]]|title=The Royal Chronicle of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya : Version by Somdet Phra Phonnarat of [[Wat Pho|Wat Phra Chettuphon]]}}</ref>

===19th century===
[[File:Muay Thai match in Siam 1865 John Thomson.jpg|thumb|Muay Thai match in Siam 1865 by John Thomson]]

The ascension of [[King Chulalongkorn]] (Rama V) to the throne in 1868 ushered in a golden age not only for Muay but for the whole country of Thailand. Muay progressed greatly during the reign of Rama V as a direct result of the king's personal interest in the sport. The country was at peace and Muay functioned as a means of physical exercise, self-defense, attacking, recreation and personal advancement.<ref name="AWESOME MUAY THAI">{{Cite web|url=https://tourismproduct.tourismthailand.org/file/ebook/488/mobile/index.html#p=1|title=Awesome Muay Thai |access-date=9 July 2020|archive-date=23 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923072918/https://tourismproduct.tourismthailand.org/file/ebook/488/mobile/index.html#p=1|url-status=dead}}</ref>

To increase interest in Muay Thai, King Chulalongkorn implemented nationwide tournaments and established a Royal Boxing Center, known as Muay Luang or Royal Boxers, similar to the Muay Fighters Regiment during the Ayutthaya Period, to administer the training of both Muay Thai and Krabi–krabong. He also bestowed the title of Muen, a [[Thai nobility]] rank, to the victor of each match. In 1887, the Department of Education (now the Department of Physical Education, [[Ministry of Tourism and Sports (Thailand)]]) was established by King Chulalongkorn, with Muay Thai being included as a subject in the national curriculum for both physical education teacher training schools and the [[Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy]] (CRMA).<ref>Prayukvong, Kat and Junlakan, Lesley D. (2001). ''Muay Thai: A Living Legacy Vol. 1''. Bangkok: Spry Publishing. p. 28. {{ISBN|978-974-8-85537-0}}</ref>

===20th century===
====The modern era====
[[File:Muay Thai at Sanphet Maha Prasat Throne Hall in Ayutthaya 1907.jpg|thumb|Muen Muay Mee Chue (Plong Jamnongthong) of Chaiya performed [[Muay Boran]] in front of the Sanphet Maha Prasat Throne Hall in 1907 during the reign of King [[Chulalongkorn]].]][[File:USMC-110215-M-2739S-005.jpg|thumb|Local school children in Thailand demonstrate Muay Thai.]]

Modern Muay Thai arose from the local form of bare-hand fighting historically known simply as ''muay'', and became recognized as a distinct martial art form in the early 20th century, when the term ''Muay Thai'' ('Siamese boxing' in English) was introduced in physical education curricular documents to distinguish it from international boxing (''muay sakon'' in Thai).<ref name="Vail 2014">{{cite journal |last1=Vail |first1=Peter |title=Muay Thai: Inventing Tradition for a National Symbol |journal=Sojourn: Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia |date=2014 |volume=29 |issue=3 |pages=509–553 |doi=10.1355/sj29-3a |url=https://muse.jhu.edu/article/562678 |issn=0217-9520}}</ref>

The officially recognized history of Muay Thai was largely codified in the late 20th century, when the sport gained widespread popularity and became recognized as a national sport and cultural heritage. The term [[Muay Boran]] was coined to describe the pre-modern historical martial art form of Muay Thai, and they came to symbolize a warrior spirit seen as a core component of [[Thainess]].<ref name="Vail 2014" />

In 1910, the King requested ''muay'' fighters from outlying provinces to fight matches at the funeral of his son Prince [[Urubongse Rajasombhoj]], and granted the [[Thai noble titles|noble rank]] of ''Muen'' to the three best fighters, who were from [[Lopburi]], [[Khorat]] and [[Chaiya]]. These would later become codified as regional styles of Muay Boran.<ref name="Vail 2014" />

1913: British boxing was introduced into the curriculum of the [[Suankularb Wittayalai School|Suan Kulap College]]. The first descriptive use of the term "Muay Thai".

From 1914 to 1918 during [[World War I]], Thailand sent troops to fight with its allies in [[France]]. They taught people there Muay Thai, and later Thai boxing spread to others and became known internationally, so the word of ''Muay Thai'' had reached [[Europe]] by this time.<ref>Helt, Julianna. (2024). ''Muay Thai''. Mendota Heights, MN: Apex Editions; North Star Editions. p. 14. {{ISBN|978-163-7-38892-1}} {{OCLC|1417715176}}</ref> A French magazine, ''Le Sport Orient'', published in [[Mainz]], observed:
<blockquote>Thai boxing is astounding but hard to get to see. The boxers are agile, strong, and tough. This sport is not just a thrilling, strange, and extraordinary form of entertainment. Once again, it makes the French feel that Siam is one of the truly remarkable nations of Asia.<ref>Kraithat, Panya, and Kraitus, Pitisuk. (1988). ''Muay Thai: The Most Distinguished Art of Fighting''. (6th ed.). Phuket: Asia Books. p. 24. {{ISBN|978-974-8-68419-2}}</ref><ref>"Kickboxing in Thailand," in Wyatt, David K. "Bangkok." ''Microsoft Student 2009 [DVD]''. Redmond, WA: Microsoft Corporation, 2008. para. 6.</ref></blockquote>

1919: British boxing and Muay Thai were taught as one sport in the curriculum of the Suan Kulap College. Judo was also offered.

1921: First permanent ring in Siam at Suan Kulap College. Used for both muay and British boxing.

1923: Suan Sanuk Stadium. First international style three-rope ring with red and blue padded corners, near Lumpinee Park. Muay and British boxing.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://8limbs.us/muay-thai-thailand/modernization-muay-thai-timeline |title=The Modernization of Muay Thai – A Timeline | author=Sylvie von Duuglas-Ittu |publisher=8Limbs.us |date=2015-01-10 |access-date=2015-06-13 |archive-date=23 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150423020225/http://8limbs.us/muay-thai-thailand/modernization-muay-thai-timeline |url-status=live }}</ref>

King [[Rama VII]] (r. 1925–1935) pushed for codified rules for Muay and they were put into place. Thailand's first boxing ring was built in 1921 at Suan Kulap. Referees were introduced and rounds were now timed by kick. Fighters at the [[Lumpinee Boxing Stadium]] began wearing modern gloves, as well as hard groin protectors, during training and in boxing matches against foreigners. Traditional rope-binding (''Khat Chueak'') made the hands a hardened, dangerous striking tool. The use of knots in the rope over the knuckles made the strikes more abrasive and damaging for the opponent while protecting the hands of the fighter.<ref>{{cite web|last=Patterson|first=Jeff|title=Know Your Muay Thai: Hand Wraps|url=http://nwfighting.com/know-your-muay-thai-hand-wraps.html/|work=nwfighting.com|publisher=Northwest Fighting Arts|access-date=4 March 2014|archive-date=6 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140306225833/http://nwfighting.com/know-your-muay-thai-hand-wraps.html/|url-status=live}}</ref> This rope-binding was still used in fights between Thais but after a death in the ring, it was decided that fighters should wear gloves and cotton coverlets over the feet and ankles. It was also around this time that the term "Muay Thai" became commonly used, while the older form of the style came to be known as "Muay Boran", which is now performed primarily as an exhibition art form.

[[File:Bangkok Lumpinee Boxing Stadium 2.jpg|thumb|left|A Muay Boran demonstration, Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, [[Bangkok]]]]

Muay Thai was at the height of its popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. Top fighters commanded purses of up to 200,000 [[Thai Baht|Baht]] and the stadia where gambling was legal drew big gates and big advertising revenues. In 2016, a payout to a superstar fighter was about 100,000 Baht per fight,<ref name="SAG-20161013">{{cite news |last1=Zandstra |first1=Tate |title=Blood, sweat and debt |url=https://southeastasiaglobe.com/muay-thai-gambling-death/ |access-date=3 April 2020 |work=Southeast Asia Globe |date=13 October 2016 |archive-date=25 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225162140/https://southeastasiaglobe.com/muay-thai-gambling-death/ |url-status=live }}</ref> but can range as high as 540,000 Baht for a bout.<ref>{{cite news |last=Krausz |first=Tibor |title=Muay Thai child fighters put their health on the line for gamblers and hope of a better life |url=https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/article/2168323/muay-thai-child-fighters-put-their-health-line-gamblers-and-hope-better |access-date=3 April 2020 |work=South China Morning Post |date=15 October 2018 |archive-date=4 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200304172109/https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/article/2168323/muay-thai-child-fighters-put-their-health-line-gamblers-and-hope-better |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 1993, the [[International Federation of Muaythai Associations|International Federation of Muay Thai Amateur]], or IFMA was inaugurated. It became the governing body of amateur Muay Thai consisting of 128 member countries worldwide and is recognised by the [[Olympic Council of Asia]].

In 1995, the [[World Muaythai Council]], the oldest and largest professional sanctioning organisations of muay Thai, was established by the Thai government and sanctioned by the Sports Authority of Thailand.

In 1995, the World Muay Thai Federation was founded by the merger of two existing organisations, and established in [[Bangkok]], becoming the federation governing international Muay Thai. In August 2012, it had over 70 member countries. Its president is elected at the World Muay Thai Congress.

===21st century===

In 2006, Muay Thai was included in [[SportAccord]] with IFMA. One of the requirements of SportAccord was that no sport can have a name of a country in its name. As a result, an amendment was made in the IFMA constitution to change the name of the sport from "Muay Thai" to "Muaythai" – written as one word in accordance with Olympic requirements.

[[File:THAI FIGHT 2.jpg|thumb|150px|right|[[Thai Fight]] in 2012]]

In 2014, Muay Thai was included in the [[International World Games Association]] (IWGA) and was represented in the official programme of The World Games 2017 in [[Wrocław]], Poland.

In January 2015, Muay Thai was granted the patronage of the [[International University Sports Federation]] (FISU) and, from 16 to 23 March 2015, the first University World Muaythai Cup was held in Bangkok.

In 2020, there are more than 3,800 Thai boxing gyms overseas.<ref name="BP-20200330">{{cite news |last=Prateepchaikul |first=Veera |title=Army's role in boxing a shady affair |url=https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/1889010/armys-role-in-boxing-a-shady-affair |access-date=30 March 2020 |work=Bangkok Post |date=30 March 2020 |department=Opinion |archive-date=12 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230312035156/https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/1889010/armys-role-in-boxing-a-shady-affair |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Rules===
According to IFMA rules, Muay Thai is a full contact martial art that uses the fists, elbows, knees and feet to strike an opponent. For a strike to count as a point score, it has to connect without being blocked by your opponent. Strikes do not score if they connect with your opponent's glove, forearm, shin or foot. Strikes to the groin were allowed in Muay Thai boxing until the late 1980s, and are still permitted in Thailand itself, and in club or competition events that abide to the traditional rules. While competitors do wear groin protection, such as cups, the rules for club level sparring and competition events may vary regarding the protective gear that may or may not be worn. Mixed-sex fights are not practiced at international level, but do occur in club and inter-club sparring and competition events. If the fight goes the distance and both fighters finish with the same score, then the winner is determined by which fighter landed the most full contact blows.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Muaythai Rules – International Federation of Muaythai Associations|url=https://muaythai.sport/muaythai-rules/|access-date=2022-02-19|archive-date=18 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220218213608/https://muaythai.sport/muaythai-rules/|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Olympics ===
Timeline of [[International Federation of Muaythai Associations]] (IFMA) from founding to [[International Olympic Committee]] (IOC) recognition:<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-07-20|title=Muay Thai, IFMA fully recognized by IOC|url=https://www.nationthailand.com/life/40003510|access-date=2021-07-21|website=nationthailand|language=en|archive-date=21 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210721083747/https://www.nationthailand.com/life/40003510|url-status=live}}</ref>

* 1992: National Federation of Muaythai Associations founded.
* 1995: International Amateur Muay Thai Federation (IAMTF) founded.
* 2012: Official request for International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognition launched.
* 2016: First endorsement received.
* 2017: Muaythai is included in the World Games.
* 2021: On June 10, the IOC Board of Directors agreed on the full endorsement of IFMA at the 138th IOC General Assembly in [[Tokyo]].
* 2021: On July 20, the IOC General Assembly granted full recognition to the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) and Muaythai.
* 2023: On January 11, USA MuayThai has been officially approved by The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and was recognized by the organization's committee as the newest member with a chance to build on the 2028 Olympic in the United States.
* 2023: The European Olympic Committees (EOC) had officially announced the inclusion of Muay Thai, or Thai-style boxing, at the 2023 European Games to be held in Krakow, Poland.
* 2024: The International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA) granted Muay Thai to feature as a demonstration sport to be held in the [[2024 Summer Olympics|Olympic Games Paris 2024]].<ref>{{Multiref2
|1=[https://www.thaipbsworld.com/muay-thai-to-be-showcased-at-the-paris-olympic-games-2024/ "Muay Thai to be showcased at the Paris Olympic Games 2024"]. ThaiPBS World. Thai Public Broadcasting Service. Retrieved on 2 June 2024.
|2=[https://www.bangkokpost.com/sports/2799039/muay-thai-demo-set-for-paris-games "Muay Thai demo set for Paris Games"]. ''Bangkok Post'' (May 25, 2024). Retrieved on 2 June 2024.
|3=[https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/news/sport/40038279 "IFMA president announces that Thai kickboxing will feature as a demonstration sport in the upcoming Games"]. ''The Nation'' (May 24, 2024). Retrieved on 2 June 2024.
}}</ref>