Muay Thai, or Thai Boxing as we tend to call it in the western hemisphere, is a traditional style of Thai martial arts or self defence. Although it does have the word boxing in the name, the similarities between Muay Thai and the kind of boxing we see back home, are slight. For example, unlike boxing back in the west, Thai boxers can use not only their hands, but their feet and elbows, as well as some moves similar to wrestling grips.

There are two Muay Thai stadiums in Patong. The first of these, Bangla Boxing Stadium, is located right opposite the the Banzaan Market, next to the Jungceylon Shopping Complex, so it is very easy to find. The second is the Patong Boxing Stadium, which is located on Sainamyed Road, this is the largest of the two stadiums, as well as being the premier Muay Thai stadium in the whole of Thailand.

Patong Boxing Stadium has regular Muay Thai events on Monday and Friday nights, which start at 9pm and run on until the last bout is over. Bangla Boxing Stadium has no regular fight schedule, just listen for the trucks loaded with loudspeakers, which cruise slowly around Patong pronouncing upcoming events.

If you are visiting Thailand for the first time,then you really should consider taking in a Muay Thai match or two. Muay Thai is a large part of Thai culture, much like Football in Europe, and Thai people can become rather excited during the matches, this can often be more entertaining than the fighters themselves! Food and beverages, both Thai and western are available within the stadium, so simply make an evening of it, eat whilst you are watching the fights.