Mingalabar....

Welcome to the Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy

Myanmar Traditional Boxing, or Lethwei, is renowned as one of the world’s most aggressive and formidable fighting arts. With a history spanning over a thousand years, Lethwei is a distinctive form of Southeast Asian boxing, often referred to as the Art of 9 Limbs. It stands unparalleled in modern combat sports, allowing an extensive array of techniques, including bare-fist punches, kicks, elbows, knees, clinches, throws, traps, and even headbutts. Integral to Myanmar’s cultural heritage, Lethwei is more than a sport; it is a profound symbol of strength, resilience, and national pride. For the people of Myanmar, Lethwei embodies their traditions, culture, and identity, making it a cornerstone of their historical legacy.

Thut Ti Lethwei represents a fusion of combat sport, martial artistry, fitness development, and cultural preservation. Developed by the eminent Saya Win Zin Oo at the Thut Ti Lethwei Club in Yangon, Myanmar, this approach has been refined over four decades of dedicated coaching and teaching. Under Saya Win’s guidance, Thut Ti Lethwei has not only produced numerous Lethwei champions but also nurtured countless martial arts enthusiasts, fitness practitioners, and cultural aficionados.

The influence of Thut Ti Lethwei extends far beyond its home club in Yangon. Many of Myanmar’s leading Lethwei coaches and promoters received their foundational training under Saya Win. Today, Thut Ti Lethwei is practiced widely, offering training for competition, self-defense, health, and personal development. Its methodologies have been adopted and adapted by gyms, fighters, and instructors across the nation, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of modern Lethwei training.

As one of Myanmar’s premier Saya (teachers), Win Zin Oo commands immense respect as a coach, trainer, and instructor. Since beginning his professional coaching career in 1982, Saya Win has established himself as a pivotal figure in the evolution of Lethwei. He is the founder of the renowned Thut Ti Lethwei Club, a hub for producing local, national, and international champions. Notably, Saya Win was the first coach to bring Lethwei to the international stage, introducing the art to global audiences.

In 1994, Saya Win was appointed Joint Secretary of the Myanmar Lethwei Federation, and in 2007, he became its Vice President, serving as the primary technical advisor for training and competition. His extensive knowledge, collaborative approach, and unwavering dedication have earned him recognition as the preeminent global ambassador for Lethwei. Saya Win’s contributions have not only elevated the sport within Myanmar but also positioned it as a respected and admired combat sport and fighting art on the world stage.

The Thut Ti Lethwei Global Education and Training Initiative (simply referred to as Thut Ti Lethwei Global) was established to honor and preserve the legacy of Thut Ti Lethwei, a combat sport and fighting art developed and taught by Saya Win Zin Oo. Serving as a cornerstone for learning and teaching this traditional discipline, Thut Ti Lethwei Global operates under the expert direction of Saya Win Zin Oo, supported by a dedicated advisory team. This team comprises professionals with extensive expertise in teaching, curriculum development, martial arts programming, exercise science, medicine, media, and management.

Guided by best practices in instructional design and delivery, Thut Ti Lethwei Global provides a comprehensive, evidence-based curriculum. This systematic training program facilitates the learning of Lethwei as it is authentically practiced at the Thut Ti Lethwei Club of Yangon. For those who complete the foundational student training program and aspire to progress beyond the student level, Saya Win Zin Oo offers the Thut Ti Lethwei Instructor Preparation Program through Thut Ti Lethwei Global.

Committed to preserving and advancing the legacy of Thut Ti Lethwei, the organization places a strong emphasis on developing well-trained and highly skilled instructors. The Instructor Preparation Program is meticulously designed to educate, train, and support individuals on their path to becoming certified Thut Ti Lethwei instructors. Participants in the program can achieve various certification levels beginning with Instructor Level 1 (Saya Aasint Dit).

To further enhance the quality of instructor preparation, the Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy was created. The Lethwei Academy serves as a hub for preparing competent and high-quality Lethwei instructors, ensuring the tradition and teachings of Thut Ti Lethwei continue to thrive on a global scale.

What is
Lethwei?

Lethwei as a
Combat Sport

Lethwei as a
Fighting Art

Lethwei as a
Culture

A Brief History
of Lethwei

Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy Disclaimer

The information provided on Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy (lethwei.net) is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. The content on this Website is not intended as a substitute for instruction or direction from a professional combat sports coach or martial arts instructor. The content is also not intended as a substitute for medical direction, advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a health care professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or th e safety of participating in any physical activity.
Not Medical Advice: The content on this Website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Consult a Professional: It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new activity program, diet, or exercise routine. Your individual training goals should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider who can provide personalized recommendations.
Assumption of Risk: Participation in physical activity and exercise carries inherent risks, and by using the information provided on this Website, you acknowledge and voluntarily assume these risks. Always exercise caution and common sense when engaging in physical activities.
Accuracy of Information: While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the content on this Website may not always reflect the most current research or medical guidelines. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information presented.
Responsibility: You are responsible for your health and safety when engaging in any combat sport, martial art, or fitness program, individual exercise, or dietary practice discussed on this Website. Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy, its authors, contributors, and affiliates disclaim any liability for any injury, loss, or damage incurred as a result of the use or reliance on the information provided on this Website.
Changes to Disclaimer: Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy reserves the right to modify or update this disclaimer at any time without prior notice. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer periodically for any changes.
By using Thut Ti Lethwei Global Academy website, you agree to the terms of this disclaimer. If you do not agree with these terms, please refrain from using this website.

What is Lethwei?

Myanmar Traditional Boxing, or Lethwei, is widely regarded as one of the world’s most aggressive and powerful martial arts. With a history spanning over a thousand years, Lethwei is a distinctive form of Southeast Asian combat also known as the “Art of 9 Limbs.” This name reflects its use of a wide array of techniques, including headbutts, bare-fist punches, kicks, elbows, knees, clinches, throws, traps, and chokes.

Unlike other Southeast Asian martial arts such as Muay Thai in Thailand, Kun Khmer (Pradal Serey) in Cambodia, or Muay Lao in Laos, Lethwei’s unique approach incorporates an exceptionally broad arsenal of techniques. Its bare-knuckle fighting style and allowance of headbutts set it apart, creating a dynamic and raw combat sport with fewer restrictions. This uninhibited rule set enables Lethwei fighters to utilize strategies and tactics unavailable in other martial arts traditions, offering greater freedom of expression while also increasing the physical risks involved.

The absence of gloves and inclusion of headbutting amplify both the impact and the danger of Lethwei. Fighters can cause significant damage through techniques like trapping, choking, and throwing—maneuvers often banned in other combat sports. The sport’s defining characteristics—its range of techniques, the distance at which they are executed, and the choice of impact areas—underscore the distinctiveness of Lethwei.

For the people of Myanmar, Lethwei is far more than just a combat sport; it is a vital aspect of the nation’s cultural heritage and a profound source of pride. Rooted in Myanmar’s history, Lethwei symbolizes resilience, strength, and the enduring spirit of its people. As such, it holds a special place in the national identity and continues to be cherished as a living tradition that connects modern Myanmar to its ancient past.

Lethwei is often misunderstood by outsiders. Some incorrectly label it as “Thai Boxing with headbutts” or attempt to promote modified versions of the art that dilute its authenticity. These interpretations fail to grasp the essence of Lethwei, which is deeply entwined with the history, culture, and people of Myanmar.

Authentic Lethwei is practiced in many gyms and clubs across Myanmar, each with its own unique approach to training and technique. Despite these variations, all share a common foundation rooted in the official rules and traditions of the sport. Practitioners and enthusiasts should remain vigilant against the spread of “pseudo-Lethwei,” which misrepresents the true spirit of this martial art.

Lethwei’s unrestrained nature and profound cultural significance distinguish it as one of the most unique and respected fighting arts in the world. For those who seek to understand its essence, Lethwei offers not just a lesson in combat but a deeper connection to the soul of Myanmar.

Lethwei as a Combat Sport

“Like with all combat sports
you have to be quite crazy to do it.”
– Saya Win Zin Oo

Fighting sports and martial traditions have long been woven into the fabric of life in Myanmar (formerly Burma). In ancient times, these practices served as preparations for war and survival, while others marked rites of passage for boys transitioning into adulthood. Among these traditions, Lethwei—the art of bare-knuckle fighting—stands out as a deeply rooted cultural heritage. For centuries, it was quietly preserved in Myanmar’s rural villages, hidden from the outside world. Today, like Myanmar itself, Lethwei is experiencing a vibrant revival and gaining recognition both locally and internationally.

Lethwei contests are typically held during festivals or special events, with fighters traveling across the country in search of bouts. Lethwei boxers share a kinship with the bare-knuckle pugilists of 19th and early 20th-century England and America. Fighters wrap their hands with hemp or gauze, offering minimal protection and often resulting in cuts and abrasions—hallmarks of this gritty combat sport.

Traditionally, matches were held outdoors in circular sandpits, with no weight classes. Instead, experienced promoters or referees matched fighters based on size and ability. This approach echoes the matchmaking methods of other ancient martial arts, such as Kushti (Indian wrestling) and Southeast Asian bare-knuckle fighting.

One of Lethwei’s most distinctive features is the “special rest” rule, which allows a fighter who has been knocked out to be revived and continue fighting. This two-minute interval, during which a fighter’s corner attempts to resuscitate and rejuvenate them, harks back to grudge matches of old. In those days, giving a downed opponent a second chance was a way to ensure honor and vengeance could be pursued to the fullest.

Lethwei has few rules, emphasizing its raw and visceral nature. Prohibited actions include hair-pulling, slapping, biting, eye-gouging, and striking the genitals. Once an opponent is down, further strikes are forbidden. If both fighters fall simultaneously, the use of elbows and knees is also disallowed.

To enhance Lethwei’s global appeal, organizers have adopted elements from international combat sports. Modern adaptations, commonly referred to as Myanmar Traditional Boxing, transitioned bouts from sandpits to boxing rings and introduced standardized rules, including weight classes and timed rounds. However, key traditional elements remain intact, such as bare-fisted punching, head-butts, trapping, choking, and throwing. Fighters still win by knockout, injury, or submission, with many matches ending in a draw.

Traditional Lethwei matches begin with a vibrant ceremonial dance, the Lethwei Yay, performed to the rhythmic beats of a live orchestra. This warrior dance showcases the fighter’s skill and courage while paying homage to Buddha and the guardian spirits, Khun Cho and Khun Tha. Each ethnic group and boxing school has its own unique version of this dance.

Accompanying the fight is the Lay Kin, a dynamic musical performance by the Saing Waing ensemble, featuring traditional instruments like drums, cymbals, bamboo clappers, and the hne (a type of reed instrument). The tempo rises and falls with the intensity of the bout, reaching a crescendo during moments of fierce combat.

Fighters also perform the traditional Lekkha Moun gesture before and after fights, as well as during the Lethwei Yay. This involves slapping the left elbow with the right palm in a display of respect, defiance, or invincibility. Even referees and jury members may join in, emphasizing its deep cultural resonance.

Lethwei fighters compete barefoot, occasionally wearing nylon anklets to absorb perspiration. They typically wear simple, dark-colored shorts, though a longyi (a folded triangular sarong) may be added to distinguish opponents.

In the past, tattoos played a significant role in Lethwei. Fighters adorned their legs, arms, and bodies with intricate designs symbolizing manhood, courage, and supernatural abilities. Animal motifs like tigers and cobras were common among temple and royal boxers, believed to grant strength and protection. Although less prevalent today, these tattoos remain a testament to the sport’s rich history.

Today, Lethwei exists in both its traditional form and its modernized variant, Myanmar Traditional Boxing, which was established in 1996 to bring standardization under government oversight. The modern style closely resembles Muay Thai in its competitive structure but retains the spirit and rawness of its rural origins.

Despite its evolution, Lethwei remains steeped in tradition. Its colorful ceremonies, unique rules, and cultural significance ensure that it continues to thrive as a living testament to Myanmar’s martial heritage. Whether in the sandpits of rural villages or the boxing rings of urban arenas, Lethwei endures as a symbol of resilience, skill, and cultural pride.

Lethwei as a Fighting Art

“Lethwei is linked to the identity of Myanmar . . .
it is a a combat sport, a fighting art, and a culture.”
– Saya Win Zin Oo

Renowned for producing some of the toughest and most formidable fighters in the world, Lethwei has earned a reputation as one of the most dangerous fighting arts. Known as the “Art of Nine Limbs,” this traditional Burmese combat sport stands out for its raw, unrelenting nature, making it closer in principle and practice to real-world street fighting than most other kickboxing styles. Lethwei is direct, pragmatic, and brutally effective.

When viewed through the lens of personal combat preparation, Lethwei emerges as a comprehensive discipline that sharpens timing, distance management, and movement, while also fostering the resilience to both deliver and endure punishment. For Lethwei fighters, success is not solely measured by victory or defeat but by fighting with intensity and learning vital lessons about survival. Its extensive technical and tactical arsenal, combined with its nearly unrestricted rules, emphasizes defensive adaptability, physical conditioning, and the mental toughness to withstand punishment. This is why Lethwei training focuses heavily on hardening the body to absorb impact and refining the body’s natural weapons for offense.

The versatility of Lethwei offers unique advantages that set it apart from most martial arts and kickboxing methods popular in the U.S. While its competitive aspect is notable, Lethwei also shines as a tool for personal defense and fitness development. Beyond teaching timing, distance, and movement, it conditions practitioners to endure and deliver powerful blows effectively.

Due to its unrestricted design, Lethwei is arguably better suited for real-world self-defense than other combat arts. The absence of gloves allows bare-fist punches to inflict maximum damage with greater efficiency, while techniques like headbutts, trapping, clinching, and throws make it exceptionally effective in close-quarters combat. These elements underscore Lethwei’s practicality in scenarios where survival takes precedence over sporting rules.

However, the value of Lethwei extends far beyond physical combat. At its core, Lethwei is a holistic practice that encompasses not only sport and self-defense but also a rich cultural heritage and value system. Training in Lethwei equips practitioners to confront life’s challenges with resilience, teaching lessons in perseverance, adaptability, and strength—both physical and mental.

Lethwei’s emphasis on conditioning also makes it a powerful fitness tool. Its rigorous training methods promote exceptional physical development, making it suitable for high-intensity workouts and adaptable for individual or group fitness programs. Whether practiced for sport, self-defense, or fitness, Lethwei provides a dynamic and rewarding pathway to personal growth.

Lethwei as a Culture

The Burmese calendar, based on a lunar cycle, is rich with annual festivals that hold cultural and spiritual significance. Among these, Thingyan, the Burmese New Year, stands out as a four-day celebration marked by water festivities, communal joy, and spiritual renewal. Following Thingyan, numerous local pagoda festivals bring communities together in vibrant displays of tradition. One of the most enduring and culturally significant activities during these festivals is Lethwei, Myanmar’s traditional bare-knuckle martial art. For centuries, Lethwei tournaments have been integral to these celebrations, blending athleticism with cultural heritage.

In addition to Thingyan and pagoda festivals, Lethwei matches are also hosted during funerals and local village celebrations, reflecting its deep integration into Burmese life. Traditionally, fights are held in makeshift sand pits, drawing crowds that include Buddhist monks, families, and villagers. These gatherings reflect the communal and spiritual essence of Lethwei, transcending mere competition.

Lethwei matches during festivals carry a unique cultural significance distinct from commercial tournaments in urban centers like Yangon and Mandalay. Festival fights are less about victory and more about celebrating bravery, skill, and sportsmanship. The atmosphere is festive, with crowds cheering enthusiastically for local fighters. In these settings, camaraderie and mutual respect shine as defining aspects of the event. Referees prioritize spirited bouts over prolonged combat, particularly when children participate, ensuring the experience remains lively and enjoyable. Spectacular and daring fighters are often rewarded with cash prizes as a token of appreciation for their performance.

These traditional matches offer a window into Myanmar’s ancient past, where Lethwei symbolized more than a sport—it was a rite of passage, a test of manhood, and a preparation for the battlefield. For the Burmese people, Lethwei connects them to their cultural roots and fosters a sense of unity and pride in their diverse heritage. It is more than entertainment; it is a celebration of resilience, identity, and the enduring spirit of the community.

Beyond festivals, most Lethwei practitioners are farmers and laborers who engage in the sport during their leisure time. Despite its raw and primal appearance—bare fists and feet are used—Lethwei embodies a code of respect and safety. Fighters uphold traditions of courtesy and sportsmanship, reflecting the art’s profound cultural values. In this way, Lethwei continues to thrive as a symbol of Myanmar’s rich history and unyielding spirit.

Above all else, the essence of Lethwei is its spirit. According to Saya Win Zin Oo, renowned Lethwei coach and founder of the Thut Ti Gym in Yangon, Myanmar:

“…the aggression that is witnessed in a Lethwei fight is left inside the ring and is not seen outside the ring. Outside the ring is all about respect. Outside observers are often struck by the gentle, brotherly nature of the fighters after a fight. He explains, ‘the fights are really violent but, there’s not as much testosterone, arrogance or attitude as you see in MMA or boxing. They don’t want to kill their opponent, they just want to win the fight’ adding, ‘In traditional Lethwei fights there’s no trash talking.’ During a Lethwei match where one of the fighters goes down, it is not unusual to see the other fighter help his opponent up. At the same time, others run to aid the downed fighter.

Saya Win explains, ‘The heart of the fighting system is linked with sporting spirit, after the bloody fight they hug each other.  Watching the fighters outside the ring, one can see the best way to practice combat sports and martial arts. Rather than raging through the streets, jacked up on testosterone and glory of the victory, world class Lethwei champions typically live simple, unassuming lives, greeting their fans with humility’.

This sporting spirit is fostered in the fighters from an early age. Win explains that a ‘noble mind’ is what makes a Lethwei champion truly great. ‘The courage to forget and forgive is very important, somebody punches you and you bleed and the next day you have to sit together. If you’re not at that standard you won’t be recognized as a genuine Lethwei fighter. I think it goes back to the politeness, the obedience, perseverance, courage – those are the components of a true Lethwei fighters”.

Saya Win further explains,

“If you have to pick up only one thing that makes a Lethwei warrior, I pick courage.’ He adds, ‘I refer to it as facing something that you’re afraid of and choosing to take the pain with a sense of determination. This spirit it very important to both professionals and the fighters in small villages.’  As he speaks, there is a sense that he is not only speaking about Lethwei fighters but, Myanmar’s people. The courage and fighting spirit at the heart of the sport runs deeper, to the core of a nation that has had to pick itself up again and again”.

A Brief History of Lethwei

The social institutions of Southeast Asia have long been shaped by the rich interplay of influences from India, China, and neighboring Asian civilizations. Similarly, Myanmar’s vibrant cultural and historical tapestry reflects the confluence of diverse peoples and traditions. This intermingling has given rise to a broad spectrum of combat disciplines among the Myanmar people, including Lethwei (a combat sport), Bando (empty-hand fighting techniques), Banshay (weapon-based fighting methods), and Naban (grappling methods). These martial arts played a pivotal role in the success of ancient Myanmar armies, which employed them in numerous conflicts and wars with neighboring countries.

Among Myanmar’s populace, it is widely believed that Lethwei was developed by Burmese monks around the 3rd century as a means of discipline and self-defense. Archaeological evidence, such as inscriptions on temple walls in the ancient city of Bagan, establishes the sport’s presence by 800 A.D. Historical records suggest that Lethwei gained popularity during the 10th century, particularly under the reign of King Anawrahta, who united the Burmese Empire after defeating neighboring Thais, Shans, and Mons.

By the 16th century, during the Nyaungyan Dynasty, and later under King Alaungpaya in the 18th century, Lethwei spread beyond Myanmar’s borders through conquests of neighboring Siam and Laos. During this period, the combat sport became the national pastime of the Burmese Empire. Training in Lethwei and other indigenous martial arts was common among men and boys, from small villages to large cities. Tournaments became a centerpiece of festivals, where skilled practitioners were celebrated and rewarded. Between 1044 and 1885, elite fighters were honored as “Royal Boxers,” with their names inscribed in royal treasury records.

For centuries, Lethwei matches were a vital part of cultural life, fostering unity and competition among Myanmar’s various tribes and ethnic groups. The fights took place in large dirt circles surrounded by cheering crowds, without modern conventions like rounds, time limits, or weight classes. Combat was raw and comprehensive, permitting strikes such as kicks, punches, elbows, knees, and headbutts, along with holds and throws.

Lethwei faced significant challenges during the British colonization of Myanmar, which began with the invasion of 1885. The martial art was heavily suppressed as British authorities viewed it—and other traditional Myanmar fighting arts like Bando and Banshay—as threats to their rule. Articles 109 and 110 of the British penal code classified Burmese martial artists as criminals, subjecting them to severe punishment. Practitioners were branded vagrants or habitual offenders, and Lethwei was banned outright from 1886 to 1948.

Despite these harsh restrictions, Lethwei endured. Practitioners cleverly disguised their training as traditional dances or cultural performances during festivals, particularly in the Shan and Karen states. In rural villages, where British oversight was less stringent, Lethwei continued to thrive clandestinely.

Following World War II and Myanmar’s independence in 1948, Lethwei began a gradual resurgence. Efforts to preserve the sport’s traditional essence were balanced with modern adaptations to increase its commercial appeal. Today, Lethwei has transitioned from the dirt circles of rural villages to professional arenas in major cities, complete with organized matches and global audiences. Despite these changes, Lethwei has retained its core identity as a fiercely traditional and uniquely Myanmar martial art.

Lethwei’s resilience is a testament to the cultural tenacity of the Myanmar people. From its ancient origins to its modern reinvention, the sport continues to embody the rich history and indomitable spirit of its practitioners.