33King Prachao Sua the ‘Tiger
King’, 1697 – 1709
Another historical figure who was
instrumental in keeping Muay Thai
culturally intact was King Prachao Sua,
the k ing who loved competing. He
was known for entering competitions
disguised as a commoner in order
to be able to fight unhindered by his
revered royal status. Because no one
recognised him as the king, he was able
to participate in tournaments against
highly skilled and notable fighters.
But while the identity of Muay Thai
was flourishing as a sport domestically,
conflicts with neighbouring Burma had
not yet played out. In 1767, the invading
armies of Burma attacked the Ayutthaya
Kingdom of Siam. During this period
of the conflict, many Thai fighters were
captured and taken to Burma. This is
where the legend Nai Khanom Tom
was born.
Known for his mastery of fighting
skills, Nai Khanom Tom was chosen by
King Mangra of Burma to participate
Bouts of fighting
continued until either
competitor gave up,
or was knocked outtop Phisooj watches
fighters train for their
upcoming fights at the
Rajadamnern Stadium.
A lot of money changes
hands in the main
arenas in Bangkok
bottom A fighter
crumbles against a
punch in the corner
of the ring