The best Muay Thai fighter is one who has perfect techique, powerful strikes, and deadly precision.
With most Muay Thai fighters starting training between the ages of 5-6 in Thailand and having amateur bouts as early as age 8, the Muay Thai Champions below represent some of the best Muay Thai fighters of all time who have trained nearly their entire life and made a massive impact on the sport.
Plus we’ve also included, modern Muay Thai figthers who have certainly made a name for themselves so far in their career.
I can’t be the only one who tries to mimic Saenchai’s question mark kick or Buakaw’s “blink-and-you’ll-miss-it” switch quick.
So I wanted write this post on all the top Muay Thai fighters who have no doubt inspired me in my own Muay Thai journey over the past couple years.
Criteria for selection
When ranking the best Muay Thai fighters, we considered several factors, including
- their fighting record
- technical skills
- impact on the sport
- championships won,
- overall contributions to Muay Thai
This list pays homage to both the legends of the past and the stars of today, showcasing the diversity and depth of talent in this beautiful and brutal martial art.
Before we dive into the lists here is a table on some of the best Muay Thai fighters and their most popular techniques and strikes:
| Fighter | Standout Techniques | Standout Strikes |
|---|---|---|
| Samart Payakaroon | Teep (push kick) | Left cross |
| Somrak Khamsing | Clinch techniques | Elbows |
| Apidej Sit-Hirun | Powerful low kicks | Rear roundhouse kick |
| Dieselnoi Chor Thanasukarn | Knee strikes | Long knee strikes |
| Pud Pad Noy Worawoot | Elbows | Spinning elbow |
| Saenchai | Cartwheel kick | Question mark kick |
| Sagat Petchyindee | Aggressive fighting style | Uppercut |
| Namsaknoi Yudthagarngamtorn | Counter striking | Lead teep |
| Chamuekpet Harpalang | Strong clinch work | Knees |
| Petchboonchu FA Group | Relentless clinch pressure | Clinch knees |
| Superlek Kiatmoo9 | Timing and precision | Lead roundhouse kick |
| Rodtang Jitmuangnon | Pressure fighting | Hooks and low kicks |
| Sangmanee Sor CafeMuayThai | Technical prowess | Straight punches |
| Kongklai AnnyMuayThai | Elusive footwork | Teep (push kick) |
| Rungkit Wor Sanprapai | Unpredictable striking | Jumping knees |
| Capitan PetchyindeeAcademy | Head kicks | Rear roundhouse head kick |
| Tawanchai PK Saenchai Gym | Timing and counter striking | Step-in knee |
| Panpayak Jitmuangnon | Left roundhouse kicks | Left high kick |
| Thongchai Tor Silachai | Clinch fighting | Knees |
| Ramon “The Diamond” Dekkers | Overhand strikes | Overhand right |
| Buakaw Banchamek | Muay Thai sweeps | Jumping push kick |
| Yodsanklai Fairtex | Powerful left kicks | Left body kick |
| John Wayne “The Gunslinger” Parr | Low kicks | Low kicks |
| Mike “Iron Mike” Zambidis | Hooks | Left hook |
| Liam “The Hitman” Harrison | Leg kicks | Rear low kick |
| Joanna Jedrzejczyk | High volume striking | Jab |
| Danny Bill | Switch hitting | Switch kicks |
| Chamuakpetch Harpalang | Strong clinch work | Knees |
| Kaopong Sittichuchai | Technical striking | Straight right |
Top 10 Muay Thai Fighters of All Time
1. Samart Payakaroon
- Weight class: Featherweight
- Win/loss statistics: 129-19-2
- Notable wins: 4x Lumpinee Stadium Champion, WBC Super Bantamweight Champion
Samart Payakaroon is often regarded as the greatest Muay Thai fighter of all time.
I know many people consider him the Greatest Muay Thai fighter of all time and I gotta be honest I’d probably agree. His fight IQ and side teep are legendary.
With an impressive record of 130 wins, 18 losses, and 2 draws, Samart won four Lumpinee Stadium titles and a WBC Featherweight boxing title. Known as the “Jade-faced Executioner,” his exceptional technique and mastery of the teep (front kick) made him a force to be reckoned with in the ring.
2. Somrak Khamsing
- Weight class: Featherweight
- Win/loss statistics: 271-17-2
- Notable wins: Gold medalist in 1996 Atlanta Olympics (boxing), 3x Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Somrak Khamsing, the first Thai boxer to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing, is another legend in the world of Muay Thai. Somarka was able to prove that Muay Thai fighters can make the move to boxing and dominate.
Despite never winning a major stadium title, Somrak’s talent and reputation were undeniable. His elusive style, lightning-fast reflexes, and powerful striking made him a fan favorite and a difficult opponent for anyone.
3. Apidej Sit-Hirun
- Weight class: Lightweight
- Win/loss statistics: 340-10-2
- Notable wins: 7x Champion in various weight divisions
Apidej Sit-Hirun is considered the hardest kicker in Muay Thai history. Just the sound alone of his leg kicks landing were painful.
He is remembered for his devastating leg kicks and exceptional clinch work. With a career spanning over 300 fights, Apidej held seven titles in three weight divisions and was named the “Fighter of the Century” by King Bhumibol Adulyadej. His aggressive style and relentless attacks earned him a place among the all-time greats.
4. Dieselnoi Chor Thanasukarn
- Weight class: Lightweight
- Win/loss statistics: 110-1-2
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion, Thailand Champion
Dieselnoi Chor Thanasukarn, known as the “Sky Piercing Knee Kicker,” was a towering figure in the ring. Standing at 6’2″, Dieselnoi used his height and reach to his advantage, dominating opponents with his powerful knee strikes. He held the Lumpinee Stadium Lightweight title for four years and was virtually unbeatable during his prime.
5. Pud Pad Noy Worawoot
- Weight class: Super Lightweight
- Win/loss statistics: 152-30-2
- Notable wins: 5x Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Pud Pad Noy Worawoot, nicknamed the “Golden Leg,” was a prolific Muay Thai fighter with over 150 wins to his name. In his peak in the 70s I seriously doubt anyone would have been able to beat him.
A master of the roundhouse kick, Pud Pad Noy’s striking prowess was unmatched in his era. He held multiple stadium titles and is remembered as one of the most skilled fighters in the history of the sport.
6. Saenchai
- Weight class: Super Featherweight
- Win/loss statistics: 299-52-3
- Notable wins: 4x Lumpinee Stadium Champion, 1x Rajadamnern Stadium Champion
Saenchai, a living legend of Muay Thai, is known for his incredible athleticism, creativity, and technical skills. Saenchi is just built different, and he attracted many fans to Muay Thai with his charisma and ring antics.
He has won numerous titles, including the Lumpinee Championship in four different weight classes. With his distinct fighting style and unmatched agility, Saenchai continues to impress fans and remains an active fighter, competing against opponents from around the world.
7. Sagat Petchyindee
- Weight class: Welterweight
- Win/loss statistics: 267-40-0
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion, Thailand Champion
Befoer we get any further, yes, Sagat Petchyindee, the inspiration behind the character Sagat in the Street Fighter video game series. He was, undoutedly, a dominant force in Muay Thai during the 1980s. His powerful punches and devastating high kicks earned him multiple titles, including Lumpinee and Rajadamnern championships. He retired with an impressive record of 266 wins, 40 losses, and 1 draw.
8. Namsaknoi Yudthagarngamtorn
- Weight class: Lightweight
- Win/loss statistics: 285-15-0
- Notable wins: 4x Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Namsaknoi Yudthagarngamtorn, also known as “The Emperor,” is regarded as one of the most successful Muay Thai fighters in history. With a stunning
record of 285 wins, 15 losses, and 5 draws, Namsaknoi held the Lumpinee Stadium title for six years and won the prestigious Rajadamnern title as well. Known for his technical prowess and strategic fighting, Namsaknoi’s achievements in the sport have earned him a place among the greats.
9. Chamuekpet Harpalang
- Weight class: Super Lightweight
- Win/loss statistics: 210-22-0
- Notable wins: 6x Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Chamuekpet Harpalang was a formidable fighter with a ferocious fighting style. Known as the “Computer Knee,” Chamuekpet won multiple Lumpinee and Rajadamnern titles in different weight classes. With his exceptional clinch work and powerful knee strikes, Chamuekpet was a feared opponent in the ring, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
10. Petchboonchu FA Group
- Weight class: Featherweight
- Win/loss statistics: 244-30-2
- Notable wins: 6x Lumpinee Stadium Champion, 2x Rajadamnern Stadium Champion
Petchboonchu FA Group is considered one of the greatest Muay Thai fighters in terms of sheer amount titles won.
A master of the clinch and a defensive specialist, Petchboonchu has held multiple Lumpinee and Rajadamnern titles. His relentless work ethic and exceptional skills made him a dominant force in the sport, with over 200 career victories.
Top Modern Muay Thai Fighters
Superlek Kiatmoo9
- Weight class: Flyweight
- Win/loss statistics: 124-28-3
- Notable wins: 2x Lumpinee Stadium Champion, 1x Rajadamnern Stadium Champion
Superlek Kiatmoo9, known as “The Kicking Machine,” is a highly skilled and aggressive fighter. As of this writing he is also the current Kickboxing Flyweight champion in One.
With multiple Lumpinee and Rajadamnern titles to his name, Superlek has quickly established himself as one of the best modern Muay Thai fighters. His explosive striking and relentless attacks make him a thrilling fighter to watch.
Rodtang Jitmuangnon
- Weight class: Flyweight
- Win/loss statistics: 267-42-10
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion, ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion
If you want to see what modern Muay Thai is about I strongly recommend wathcing highlights of Rodtang. Known for his aggressive, forward-pressing style, Rodtang has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. With an impressive record and multiple titles, including the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship, Rodtang is a force to be reckoned with in the current Muay Thai scene.
Sangmanee Sor
- Weight class: Bantamweight
- Win/loss statistics: 97-15-2
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Sangmanee Sor is a technical genius with a well-rounded skill set. His accurate striking and exceptional clinch work have led him to multiple Lumpinee and Rajadamnern titles. As a top contender in the modern Muay Thai scene, Sangmanee continues to showcase his talents against the best fighters in the world.
Kongklai AnnyMuayThai
- Weight class: Lightweight
- Win/loss statistics: 77-15-3
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Kongklai AnnyMuayThai is another gifted fighter known for his powerful striking and devastating kicks.
With a strong fighting spirit and a relentless work ethic, Kongklai has made a name for himself in the Muay Thai community. As a top contender in his weight class, Kongklai is expected to achieve great things in the sport.
Rungkit Wor Sanprapai
- Weight class: Featherweight
- Win/loss statistics: 62-12-2
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Rungkit Wor Sanprapai is an up-and-coming Muay Thai fighter with a bright future ahead of him. His aggressive style, powerful strikes, and determination have earned him a reputation as a dangerous opponent. As Rungkit continues to develop his skills and gain experience, he is expected to become a top contender in the Muay Thai world.
Capitan PetchyindeeAcademy
- Weight class: Bantamweight
- Win/loss statistics: 143-40-2
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion, WBC Muay Thai World Champion
Capitan PetchyindeeAcademy is a talented fighter known for his knockout power and precision striking. He is also the former ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Champion
He has won multiple titles, including the Lumpinee Stadium Championship and the ONE Bantamweight Muay Thai World Championship. Capitan’s exciting fighting style and impressive record make him one of the best modern Muay Thai fighters to watch.
Tawanchai P.K. Saenchaimuaythaigym
- Weight class: Featherweight
- Win/loss statistics: 123-32-0
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion, 1x Rajadamnern Stadium Champion
Tawanchai PK Saenchai Gym is the current One Featherweight Muay Thai World Championship and is undoubtedly a highly skilled fighter with a versatile skill set, known for his sharp techniques and powerful strikes.
As a multiple-time Lumpinee and Rajadamnern Stadium champion, Tawanchai has proven himself as one of the best modern Muay Thai fighters. His exciting fights and impressive achievements make him a fan favorite.
Panpayak Jitmuangnon
- Weight class: Flyweight
- Win/loss statistics: 249-40-3
- Notable wins: 5x Lumpinee Stadium Champion, 1x Rajadamnern Stadium Champion
Panpayak Jitmuangnon, also known as “The Angel of Death,” is a dominant force in the current Muay Thai scene. With multiple Lumpinee Stadium titles and a reputation for his technical prowess, Panpayak continues to showcase his skills against the best fighters in the world. His precision striking and exceptional footwork make him a challenging opponent for anyone.
Other Notable Muay Thai Fighters
Thongchai Tor Silachai
- Weight class: Welterweight
- Win/loss statistics: 120-45-1
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Thongchai Tor Silachai is the only Muay Thai fighter who has ever knocked out Saenchi.
Known for his powerful punches and relentless aggression, Thongchai has won multiple Lumpinee and Rajadamnern titles. His dedication to the sport and impressive record have earned him a place among the most notable Muay Thai fighters in history.
Gingsanglek Tor Laksong
- Weight class: Featherweight
- Win/loss statistics: Gingsanglek (135-32-5)
- Notable wins: Gingsanglek – Lumpinee Stadium Champion, Seksan – Lumpinee Stadium Champion, 1x Rajadamnern Stadium Champion
Gingsanglek Tor Laksong is the only fighter to have ever knocked out Muay Thai legend Saenchai.
Over the course of his career, he also has achieved remarkable success and demonstrated extraordinary skill in the ring. Gingsanglek is a two-time Rajadamnern Stadium champion, winning titles at both 126lbs and 130lbs weight classes. His technical prowess, coupled with his powerful kicks and precise timing, have contributed to his impressive record and enabled him to defeat numerous top-tier opponents. Gingsanglek’s dedication to the sport and his string of notable accomplishments have earned him a prominent position among the current generation of Muay Thai fighters.
Saeksan Or. Kwanmuang
- Weight class: Featherweight
- Win/loss statistics: Seksan (167-36-2)
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion, 1x Rajadamnern Stadium Champion
Seksan Or.Kwanmuang, also known as “Seksan”, is a highly accomplished Muay Thai fighter from Thailand.
Throughout his career, he has won several prestigious titles, including the Lumpinee Stadium championship in two different weight classes (130lbs and 135lbs). Seksan is known for his aggressive fighting style, relentless pace, and iron chin, which have helped him secure victories against some of the sport’s top competitors. His battles with Rodtang Jitmuangnon and Superlek are considered modern classics, showcasing his grit, determination, and heart in the ring.
Ramon “The Diamond” Dekkers
- Weight class: Welterweight
- Win/loss statistics: 186-35-2
- Notable wins: 8x World Muay Thai Champion
Ramon Dekkers, a Dutch fighter known as “The Diamond,” is one of the most famous foreign fighters in Muay Thai history.
With his aggressive style and powerful strikes, Dekkers earned eight world titles and became a symbol of success for non-Thai fighters. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate aspiring Muay Thai practitioners worldwide.
Buakaw Banchamek
- Weight class: Welterweight
- Win/loss statistics: 239-24-12
- Notable wins: K-1 World MAX Champion, Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Buakaw Banchamek is a Thai superstar and one of the most recognizable faces in Muay Thai. With numerous titles, including two K-1 World MAX Championships, Buakaw has showcased his talents on the international stage. His exciting fighting style and incredible athleticism have made him a global ambassador for the sport.
Yodsanklai Fairtex
- Weight class: Middleweight
- Win/loss statistics: 202-71-4
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion, WBC Muay Thai World Champion
Yodsanklai Fairtex, known as “The Boxing Computer,” is a legendary Thai fighter with a long and successful career. With multiple world titles and a reputation for his powerful left kick, Yodsanklai has been a dominant force in the sport. His precision striking and tactical approach have earned him a place among the all-time greats.
John Wayne “The Gunslinger” Parr
- Weight class: Middleweight
- Win/loss statistics: 99-33-0
- Notable wins: 10x World Champion
John Wayne Parr, an Australian Muay Thai champion, is known for his exciting fights and aggressive style.
With ten world titles under his belt, Parr has proven himself as a formidable foreign fighter in the world of Muay Thai. His dedication and passion for the sport have made him a beloved figure in the Muay Thai community.
Mike “Iron Mike” Zambidis
- Weight class: Super Welterweight
- Win/loss statistics: 153-22-0
- Notable wins: 15x World Champion
Mike Zambidis, a Greek fighter nicknamed “Iron Mike,” is known for his powerful punches and ferocious fighting style.
With multiple world championships and a reputation as a knockout artist, Zambidis has made a lasting impact on the sport of Muay Thai. His aggressive approach and thrilling fights have earned him a dedicated fan base.
Liam “The Hitman” Harrison
- Weight class: Welterweight
- Win/loss statistics: 109-23-2
- Notable wins: 8x World Champion
Liam Harrison, a British Muay Thai fighter, is renowned for his powerful low kicks and relentless aggression.
With multiple world titles and a reputation as one of the best foreign fighters in the sport, Harrison has left an indelible mark on Muay Thai. His dedication to the sport and impressive record have made him a role model for aspiring fighters around the world.
Joanna Jedrzejczyk
- Weight class: Strawweight
- Win/loss statistics: MMA (16-4-0), Muay Thai (37-3-0)
- Notable wins: UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion, IFMA World Championship Gold Medalist (Muay Thai)
Joanna Jedrzejczyk, a Polish fighter and former UFC Strawweight Champion, has a strong Muay Thai background.
With multiple world titles in Muay Thai, Joanna transitioned to MMA and achieved great success. Her striking skills and technical prowess have made her a formidable opponent in both Muay Thai and MMA.
Dany Bill
- Weight class: Super Lightweight
- Win/loss statistics: 68-12-2
- Notable wins: 5x World Champion
Dany Bill, a French Muay Thai fighter, is known for his exceptional technique and powerful strikes. With multiple world titles and a reputation as one of the best foreign fighters in Muay Thai, Bill has made a lasting impact on the sport. His dedication to the art and impressive record have inspired countless fighters around the world.
Chamuakpetch Harpalang
- Weight class: Featherweight
- Win/loss statistics: 108-35-0
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Stadium Champion
Chamuakpetch Harpalang, a legendary Thai fighter, is known for his powerful knee strikes and exceptional clinch work. With multiple Lumpinee and Rajadamnern titles, Chamuakpetch has left a lasting legacy in the sport of Muay Thai. His aggressive style and relentless attacks have made him one of the most feared fighters in the ring.
Kaopong Sittichuchai
- Weight class: Super Bantamweight
- Win/loss statistics: 91-15-3
- Notable wins: Lumpinee Champion
Kaopong Sittichuchai, a Thai fighter known for his powerful striking and exceptional footwork, has earned multiple Lumpinee Stadium titles. His impressive record and technical mastery have made him a revered figure in the Muay Thai community. As an accomplished fighter, Kaopong’s skills and achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring fighters.
Muay Thai Fighter Categories Breakdown
Most successful Muay Thai fighters
This category highlights the fighters with the most titles, wins, and overall achievements in the sport. Among the below githers Saenchai will still rarely compete but he is likely in the later stages of his career:
- Samart Payakaroon
- Somrak Khamsing
- Apidej Sit-Hirun
- Dieselnoi Chor Thanasukarn
- Pud Pad Noy Worawoot
- Saenchai
- Sagat Petchyindee
- Namsaknoi Yudthagarngamtorn
- Chamuekpet Harpalang
- Petchboonchu FA Group
Most technical Muay Thai fighters
The most technical fighters are known for their precise striking, exceptional footwork, and tactical approach to the sport. Some of the most technical fighters that I try to emulate in my own training and sparring are:
- Samart Payakaroon
- Saenchai
- Somrak Khamsing
- Namsaknoi Yudthagarngamtorn
- Lerdsila Chumpairtour
- Singdam Kiatmoo9
- Yodsanklai Fairtex
- Orono Wor Petchpun
- Panpayak Jitmuangnon
- Jomthong Chuwattana
Who is the Mike Tyson of Muay Thai
If there is one Nak Muay who I would say is the Mike Tyson of Muay Thai it would have to be Anuwat Kaewsamrit.
With his ferocious punching power and aggressive fighting style its not hard to see while many other also see similarites to Mike Tyson. Like Tyson, Anuwat was known for his ability to end fights quickly with his devastating strikes, particularly his powerful hooks and overhand punches. He won numerous titles during his career, including Lumpinee Stadium titles and the Rajadamnern title.
Muay Thai History
Historians are divided on the exact origin of Muay Thai. Some believe it started during the Sukhothai era (1238-1438), while others argue it developed during the Krungsri Ayutthaya era (1350-1767). Regardless of its origins, Muay Thai has always been a brutal form of fighting.
Below we have broken down some key eras and changes that have made modern Muay Thai what it is today.
Key Eras and Figures in Muay Thai History
- King Naresuan era (1590-1605): King Naresuan the Great is considered the Father of Muay Thai. He trained his army in the art, and during his reign, Muay Thai became a rite of passage for young men.
- King Narai era (1656-1688): During King Narai’s reign, Muay Thai continued to evolve, and the legend of Nai Khanom Tom, a famous Muay Thai fighter, emerged. His victory against ten Burmese fighters earned him his freedom and solidified Muay Thai’s reputation as a deadly martial art.
- Nai Khanom Tom: Often referred to as the “Father of Muay Thai,” Nai Khanom Tom was a legendary fighter who became a respected teacher, passing on his knowledge and skills to future generations.
- King Prachao Sua “Tiger King” era (1703-1709): King Prachao Sua was an avid fan of Muay Thai and helped popularize the sport. Under his reign, Muay Thai flourished and became a significant aspect of Thai culture.
- The Ratanakosin era (1782-present): This era marked the beginning of the Golden Age of Muay Thai, with rules and regulations introduced to make the sport safer. Muay Thai was integrated into the military’s physical training program during the reign of Rama V (1868-1910).
Modern Muay Thai
- 20th-century popularity: Muay Thai gained popularity worldwide, with gyms and competitions appearing across the globe. The sport evolved to incorporate elements of Western boxing and became a popular discipline in mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions.
- Significant changes: Modern Muay Thai has seen many changes, including the introduction of time limits and boxing-style matches with weight divisions, gloves, and rounds. The sport has also adapted as it spread to new countries, with fighters incorporating elements of other martial arts into their Muay Thai style.
Link: Click Here to Read More on Muay Thai History and its Origin
Muay Thai in Different Arenas
Best Muay Thai fighters in UFC
Several Muay Thai practitioners have found success in the UFC, showcasing their striking skills in the world’s premier MMA organization. While the fighters below may not have an explicit background in Muay Thai they are extremely well versed in common Muay Thai techniques and strikes:
- Valentina Shevchenko
- Jose Aldo
- Edson Barboza
- Joanna Jedrzejczyk
- Anderson Silva
- Max Holloway
- Tony Ferguson
- Israel Adesanya
- Petr Yan
- Justin Gaethje
Best Muay Thai fighters in One Championship
One Championship is more well known for gaining top Muay Thai talent since they have specific, separate events for Muay Thai and Kickboxking.
Some standout Muay Thai fighters who fight in One Championship are:
- Rodtang Jitmuangnon
- Nong-O Gaiyanghadao
- Yodsanklai Fairtex
- Saemapetch Fairtex
- Petchmorakot Petchyindee Academy
- Superbon Banchamek
- Jonathan Haggerty
- Tawanchai PK.Saenchai Muaythaigym
- Lerdsila Phuket Top Team
- Liam Harrison
The current belt holders in Muay Thai and Kickboxing in One Championship are:
One Championship Kickboxing Belt Holders:
- Atomweight Kickboxing: Janet “JT” Todd (United States)
- Strawweight Kickboxing: Jonathan Di Bella (Canada / Italy)
- Flyweight Kickboxing: Superlek “The Kicking Machine” Kiatmoo9 (Thailand)
- Bantamweight Kickboxing: Petchtanong Petchfergus (Thailand)
- Featherweight Kickboxing: Chingiz “Chinga” Allazov (Azerbaijan / Belarus)
- Lightweight Kickboxing: Regian “The Immortal” Eersel (Suriname)
- Light Heavyweight Kickboxing: Roman Kryklia (Ukraine)
One Championship Muay Thai Belt Holders:
- Atomweight Muay Thai: Allycia Hellen Rodrigues (Brazil)
- Strawweight Muay Thai: Joseph “The Hurricane” Lasiri (Italy / Morocco)
- Strawweight Muay Thai: Smilla “The Hurricane” Sundell (Sweden)
- Flyweight Muay Thai: Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon (Thailand)
- Bantamweight Muay Thai: Jonathan “The General” Haggerty (United Kingdom)
- Featherweight Muay Thai: Tawanchai PK Saenchai (Thailand)
- Lightweight Muay Thai: Regian “The Immortal” Eersel (Suriname)
Muay Thai Records and Stats
Best Muay Thai fighter records
- Namsaknoi Yudthagarngamtorn (285-15-0)
- Samart Payakaroon (129-19-2)
- Saenchai (299-52-3)
- Apidej Sit-Hirun (340-10-2)
- Dieselnoi Chor Thanasukarn (110-1-2)
Most knockouts in Muay Thai
- Anuwat Kaewsamrit (95 KO wins)
- Yodsanklai Fairtex (77 KO wins)
- Buakaw Banchamek (69 KO wins)
- Ramon “The Diamond” Dekkers (95 KO wins)
- Mike “Iron Mike” Zambidis (86 KO wins)
Muay Thai Training and Age
A significant aspect of Muay Thai is the age at which fighters in Thailand begin their training. This section will cover the age when people in Thailand start Muay Thai training.
Age when people in Thailand start Muay Thai training
- Most Thai fighters begin their Muay Thai training around the age of 5-6.
- Many start competing in amateur bouts as young as 8 years old to support their families.
- FInally, many Muay Thai fighters peak in their career at ~20 years old.
Muay Thai Tournaments and Organizations
Biggest Muay Thai tournaments
- Lumpinee Stadium Championship
- Rajadamnern Stadium Championship
- Toyota Marathon
- Thai Fight
- King’s Cup
Organizations that host Muay Thai fights
- Lumpinee Stadium
- Rajadamnern Stadium
- ONE Championship
- World Boxing Council (WBC) Muay Thai
- World Muay Thai Organization (WMO)
Best titles to win in Muay Thai
- Lumpinee Stadium Champion
- Rajadamnern Stadium Champion
- WBC Muay Thai World Champion
- WMO World Champion
- ONE Muay Thai World Champion
How Do Muay Thai Weight Classes Work?
Muay Thai weight classes vary slightly depending on organization but below is a general breakdown for reference:
| Weight Class | Weight Limit (lbs) | Weight Limit (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Flyweight | over 100 up to 105 | over 45.36 up to 47.63 |
| Junior Flyweight | over 105 up to108 | over 47.63 up to 48.99 |
| Flyweight | over 108 up to 112 | over 48.99 up to 50.81 |
| Junior Bantamweight | over 112 up to 115 | over 50.81 up to 52.17 |
| Bantamweight | over 115 up to 118 | over 52.17 up to 53.53 |
| Junior Featherweight | over 118 up to 122 | over 53.53 up to 55.34 |
| Featherweight | over 122 up to 126 | over 55.34 up to 57.16 |
| Junior Lightweight | over 126 up to 130 | over 57.16 up to 58.97 |
| Lightweight | over 130 up to 135 | over 58.97 up to 61.24 |
| Junior Welterweight | over 135 up to 140 | over 61.24 up to 63.51 |
| Welterweight | over 140 up to 147 | over 63.51 up to 66.68 |
| Junior Middleweight | over 147 up to 156 | over 66.68 up to 70.76 |
| Middleweight | over 156 up to 160 | over 70.76 up to 72.58 |
| Junior Heavyweight | over 160 up to 175 | over 72.58 up to 79.38 |
| Heavyweight | over 175 | over 79.38 |
Also when compared to boxing or MMA weight classes you see that there is less weight difference between each weight class.
Related: Check out our full post here on Muay Thai Weight Classes
Is Muay Thai in the Olympics?
- Muay Thai is not yet an Olympic sport, but it has been granted provisional recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and is currently part of the World Games.
- There are,however, ongoing efforts to have Muay Thai included as an Olympic sport in future Games.
Best Muay Thai Fighters of All Time and Modern Muay Thai Fighters – Conlusion
The Nak Muay’s on this list represent some of the best of all time plus modern fighters to keep an eye one.
As somone who started Muay Thai at the achy and constantly sore age of 29 seeing the discipline and achievenments of these fighters is nothing short of inspiring.
I hope this post can do the same for you own Muay Thai journey and pretty soon you can get out there and begin sweeping your sparring partners as effortlessly as Saenchi.
Thanks for reading – Zack
