WHAT IS LETHWEI: BRUTAL BURMESE

Lethwei, or Burmese bare-knuckle boxing, is rapidly growing in popularity. It is Myanmar’s national sport and has been around longer than all modern combat sports. Burmese boxing is a full contact combat sport from Myanmar that uses stand-up striking along with various clinching techniques. Lethwei is considered one of the most aggressive and brutal martial arts in the world, as warriors fight bare knuckle using only tape and gauze on their hands. The use of fists, elbows, knees, and feet, but more surprisingly, the head makes it an unusual martial art. Although not allowed in many combat sports, headbutting is an important weapon in a Lethwei fighter’s arsenal. This is why it is also known as “The Art of 9 Limbs''.

Although Lethwei dates back to ancient times, its first established practitioner known to the world was Kyar Ba Nyein, a Burmese boxer who competed in the 1952 summer Olympics. He pioneered modern Lethwei, which introduced the rules and regulations that remain in the sport today. Shortly after his unsuccessful Olympic run, Nyein began traveling throughout Myanmar, teaching villagers the ancient sport. After months of training, they are often encouraged to compete in tournaments.

Lethwei quickly caught the attention of some of the most fearless 일본야동닷컴 fighters in the world who wanted to test their skills in the ring. Opponents fight in the ring using kicks, punches, knees, elbows and even the headbutt. They literally use their head as a weapon, and with destructive effect. Having headbutts is a complete game changer for martial arts. That is why many fans and advocates consider Lethwei to be one of the most effective and practical martial arts. The only equipment the fighters used for Lethwei was a modified version of the boxing gloves. At the junior level, participants use protective gear for the head and shin. Some of the moves that are unique to Lethwei are, roundhouse kick, spinning elbow strike, knee and punch, knee and elbow strike, back hook kick, and jumping knee and elbow.