The names we choose or are given play a significant role in defining who we are, and this is also true with Muay Thai fighters. Muay Thai fighters in Thailand receive their names differently from the ordinary populace.
Thai fighters commonly change their last name to that of their gym or trainer, as opposed to other individuals who are given a name at birth and maintain it for the rest of their lives. The respect Thai boxers have for their trainers and the gym where they train may be seen in the origins of this tradition.
A well-known combatant who is recognised as one of the finest of all time is Saenchai. Saenchai has competed under many names for numerous gyms during his career. The final one was his own gym.
In the realm of Muay Thai, a fighter’s name frequently changes throughout time.
Saenchai, one of the best Thai boxers of all time, serves as a prime illustration of the value of altering one’s last name in Thai boxing. Throughout his career, Saenchai has battled under a variety of last names, each one a representation of the gym he was fighting out of. His last name, for instance, was Sangpetch Patanakan Gym when he competed for that gym. He changed his name to Saenchai Sor Saenchai after opening his own gym, and subsequently just Saenchai.
In the world of Thai boxing, name changes are common, like in the case of the boxer going by the name Manachai. The name Mananchai was not given to him at birth; rather, he chose it while fighting.
He goes by Manachai YOKKAOSaenchaiGym. This is his moniker, his brand, and the gym where he competes.
In Thai boxing, the custom of altering one’s name is directly related to the value of respect. Thai fighters reside at the gym where they compete, and the coaches make sure the bout purses and betting lines are set up properly.
Customized Fighter Names
Recently, there has been a push in some Muay Thai communities to adopt a more contemporary naming system that gives the fighters names that are more individualised. A fighter with traits like these animals may adopt names like “The Snake” or “The Tiger” while competing in the ring. Their name may refer to characteristics like fury, speed, agility, or level of technical expertise.
In contrast to training facilities or gyms, this tendency places more emphasis on the individual fighter, providing them a chance to establish a distinctive personal brand.
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Combatants Pick Their Own Names
Fighters have the option of selecting their own battle names in addition to conventional and contemporary naming norms. This practice is getting more and more widespread as competitors try to make a name for themselves in the sport. This might be done to establish one’s personal brand for endeavours outside of the ring.
The names that fighters select may be in Thai or another language, and they will reflect their physical traits, fighting style, in-ring attitude, personal ideals, or other traits.
So what variables affect a fighter’s name choice?
The naming of a fighter is determined by a number of things.
- Individuality
- Fighting style
- Bodily characteristics
- Hero homage
Trainers, supporters, or even the combatants themselves might suggest names, and the personality of the fighter may play a role in the decision. charisma, showmanship, or the raw performance that defines the fighter as they are.
Depending on their fighting style, a fighter’s name could also change. If speed is a character trait, Muay Mat fighters who charge in carelessly may be given the nicknames “the Lightning,” “the Bulldozer,” or “Crusher.”
A fighter’s physical attributes may also have an impact on the name they choose for themselves. The names of fighters will most closely resemble their physical qualities, whether they are tall and lanky or shorter and more compact.
Last but not least, athletes could choose to adopt names that are variations of the names of their martial arts heroes. A fighter who admires great Muay Thai fighter Samart Payakaroon can choose to go by the name “Samart Jr.” or “The Next Samart” in order to honour their hero and establish a connection with Muay Thai’s historic past and traditions.
Here are a few names of famous fighters.
- Buakaw, whose name translates to “white lotus” in Thai, adopted it early in his career. Sombat Banchamek gave birth to Buakaw Banchamek. One of the most well-known and accomplished Thai boxers of all time is Buakaw, who has competed in promotions all over the world and won several titles.
- The Muay Thai great Samart Payakaroon, better known by his given name Samart Tiptarmai, is recognised for his incredible speed and technical skill. He is referred to in the ring as “The Genius,” which is a testament to his talent and education. Samart won the 1992 WBC bantamweight championship and was an outstanding professional fighter.
- The most feared and revered fighter in Muay Thai history is Yodsanklai Fairtex (real name: Yodsanklai Sitmonchai). His nickname, “The Boxing Computer,” refers to his cerebral fighting style and his aptitude at understanding his adversaries. Yodsanklai has achieved a great deal in his career, including winning the WBC Muay Thai super welterweight title.
- One of the most celebrated athletes of his generation and a three-time Lumpinee Stadium champion is Nong-O Gaiyanghadao, commonly known as Mongkolchai Kittidet. His nickname, “The Black Lion of the Northeast,” relates to both his fierce fighting skills and his Thai background from the Isaan area. Nong-O is recognised for both his powerful left kick and his cunning in the ring.
Saensak Muangsurin, also known as Prawet Singwangcha, was a powerful figure in Muay Thai throughout the 1970s. He won a number of championships and had a reputation as one of the sport’s fiercest hitters. His moniker, “The Heavy Puncher,” is a reflection of his tremendous hitting ability, which over his career helped him win several knockouts. Saensak was successful as a professional boxer as well; in 1975, he captured the WBC junior welterweight title.
Thai boxers commonly allude to their gym, their trainer, or a combination of the two in their ring names as a sign of loyalty and respect. These names may alter throughout the course of a fighter’s career as they change gyms and trainers.
Additionally, supporters recollect and distinguish their favourite boxers by utilising these names rather than a last name, as is done in the West. Many boxers use their nicknames as a way to honour the gym or coach who helped them achieve in the ring, while some fighters’ ring names serve as a reflection of their fighting style or personality.
This is the historical background of Muay Thai fighters names. Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
