Thai Boxing

In December 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Thailand for the first time. Over two weeks, I explored the country and was blown away by some of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever seen. In Chiang Mai, I even got to experience a live Muay Thai match—Thailand’s legendary martial art. Of course, I couldn’t resist capturing this unforgettable moment with my camera…

But before I dive into that, here’s a bit of history on this iconic sport:

Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, is a centuries-old martial art that originated in Thailand as a form of close-combat warfare. Rooted in ancient battlefield techniques, it gained popularity as a sport in the 18th century under King Prachao Sua and was later modernized with official rules in the 20th century. Known as the "Art of Eight Limbs," it relies on powerful strikes using fists, elbows, knees, and shins, making it one of the most dynamic and effective striking disciplines. Today, Muay Thai is practiced worldwide—not just in combat sports but also for fitness, conditioning, and mental resilience. Its deep cultural significance continues to draw people to Thailand, where training camps and international competitions keep the tradition alive.

At first, I was struck by how brutal Muay Thai could be, but as I watched more closely, I came to appreciate the immense skill, precision, and discipline it requires. Through my photos, I wanted to capture not just the intensity of the fights but also the mental preparation before each fighter stepped into the ring—and the beauty that exists beyond the violence. Most of the fighters were under 25, yet their bodies were already covered in tattoos, and their dedication to the sport was undeniable. The guide I was with explained that for many of them, each fight was an opportunity to earn money to support their families, adding an even deeper layer of meaning to their commitment.

As a photographer, I was captivated by the way the light illuminated the ring, adding depth and drama to my shots. To enhance the intensity of the sport and the fighters' presence, I slightly increased the saturation, bringing out the raw energy and emotion of the moment.

                                                                                                                                                                                                  Mathilde Chaudeurge

Mathilde Chaudeurge