Muay Thai or Thai Kickboxing is an ancient martial art form of Thailand. It is known as the “Art of Eight Limbs” and is the national sport of Thailand. Thai Kickboxing history is long and rather controversial. There are no written records available that describe the Thai Kickboxing history. But, it is widely considered that the martial art played a significant role in the evolution of Thai culture.

Historians believe that Thai Kickboxing history originated 2000 years ago from Krabi Krabong, a Siamese weapon-based style of fighting. This art form later developed into Muay Boran, which is an ancient style Muay Thai. Muay Thai was practiced as a part of close combat battlefield fighting skill by the Thai army. During the reign of King Rama V, practicing Muay Thai was made compulsory for soldiers as well as common people. Prestigious competitions and Royal command fights were held in the honor of the King. The King rewarded boxers with military titles.

Gradually, this art form evolved into a favorite sport of the people. Training camps were organized for enthusiastic learners. The contests started to be held inside a ring surrounded by ropes. The sport began to witness changes pertaining to equipment. The players began to wear groin box and gloves. The rules of the game were codified in 1930 and new regulations were introduced.

Under the patronage of King Rama VII, the Thai kickboxing scaled new peaks. International standard stadiums were constructed. Despite the transformations in the Thai Kickboxing history, the glory of the sport and the passion of the people towards it have remained unchanged.