PROFESSIONAL MUAY THAI IS A VERY HARD SPORT
PROFESSIONAL MUAY THAI IS A VERY HARD SPORT
BY SERGE TREFEU
Professional Muay Thai, especially at the highest level, is very different from its amateur version, and this is particularly marked in Thailand, where the sport reaches new heights in terms of intensity and competitiveness.
Striking techniques are executed with formidable precision and power, greatly increasing the risk of serious injury.
Fighters often suffer broken bones, torn muscles, bone bruises, or deep cuts from elbow strikes. These injuries not only require rigorous medical attention, but also a prolonged recovery time.
Losing a fight or suffering a serious injury can affect a fighter’s confidence and motivation…
As with any contact sport, injuries are inherent to the practice, whether it is individual disciplines such as martial arts or team sports such as rugby or football. However, Muay Thai stands out for its exceptional intensity and brutal nature, which make it one of the most demanding sports in the world.
Muay Thai fighters embody admirable courage, not only in facing their opponents, but also in overcoming physical pain and psychological suffering due to injuries and exhaustion. Their determination to get up after each fall, to continue despite the blows, inspires deep respect.
The practitioners of this sport are not only athletes, but also modern warriors. Their ability to push their limits, overcome pain and give their body and soul in a fight is a true demonstration of the human spirit in its purest form.
The general public is often impressed by the visible injuries of boxers, such as spectacular cuts to the face that draw blood. But these injuries, while visually dramatic, are only the tip of the iceberg. Internal and structural injuries, less visible to spectators, are often much more serious and require a much longer recovery time.
Common injuries in Muay Thai are often broken arms. Middle kicks, which violently strike the forearms used to protect the body, are a leading cause.
The shin-to-shin exchanges that are characteristic of Muay Thai can also cause open fractures or broken bones.
Leg or ankle sprains and fractures are also common.
Frequent pivots, poorly landed kicks, or poor footing can lead to serious joint injuries, including severe sprains or fractures of the ankles and metatarsals.
Also, the power of punches, combined with opposing blocks and parries, exposes the hands to fractures of the metacarpal bones or fingers.
Fractures of the nose, cheekbones, jaw or eye sockets are common due to punches, elbows or knees. These injuries can leave lasting after-effects, both cosmetic and functional.
Fractured ribs and bruises to internal organs (such as the liver or kidneys) result from violent knee or kick blows directed towards the body.
After a fight, it is not uncommon for boxers to be wheeled away, often to the applause of the audience who are unaware of the extent of their injuries.
Boxers who suffer facial cuts are taken to hospital and often require emergency stitches. However, serious fractures of the limbs or face sometimes require complex surgical operations.
These injuries lead to extended recovery periods, during which fighters are unable to train or work, which directly affects their careers and income.
What sets Muay Thai fighters apart is their ability to keep going despite pain and injury. Even when they know they are at risk of lasting damage, they enter the ring with unwavering determination. These athletes are not just athletes, they are true models of courage.
Head knockouts in Muay Thai, as in any combat sport, can leave serious after-effects, especially if repeated. Injuries such as concussions, head trauma, or chronic brain damage can occur, although they are generally less common than in Boxing.
In Muay Thai, the blows are not focused exclusively on the head. The legs, trunk, and arms absorb a large part of the impacts, which slightly reduces the risk of head trauma compared to Boxing.
Professional Muay Thai fights take place over 5 rounds of 3 minutes, compared to 12 rounds in Boxing, which limits the duration of exposure to repeated strikes.
Despite these risks, Muay Thai fighters continue to step into the ring, driven by their passion for the sport and their desire to give their fans a unique show. Their courage and sacrifice are a source of admiration for fans of this ancient sport.
Fans and fighters alike share a deep respect for those who brave the risks and push their limits to keep this martial art alive.
Champions, in particular, embody the values of courage, discipline, and determination, inspiring generations of Muay Thai fighters and enthusiasts!