Muay Thai, the most ancestral Thai martial art, finds its deepest roots in the the most famous stadiums in Bangkok: Lumpinee Stadium and Rajadamnern Stadium. More recent and smaller, Siam Boxing Stadium is not less prestigious.
Lumpinee Stadium: Modernity and Show
Built in 1956, the Lumpinee Stadium is the biggest and the most modern of them 2. It can host 2500 seats and is most of the time full. The electric atmosphere inside is really unique.
The fighters in Lumpinee are famous for their high rhythm and strong resistance.
Among the most famous champions who fought in Lumpinee:
- Samart Payakaroon: “The King of Muay Thai”, undisputed champion during the 80’s
- Dieselnoi Chor Thanasukarn: 80’s Legend, known for his power and his technique
- Dany Bill: French Champion, leading figure of Muay Thai in Occident
- Yodsanklai Fairtex: Fighter with an amazing style, multiple time Lumpinee champion
- Buakaw Benchamek: Muay Thai superstar, famous for his spectacular KOs
- Coban Lookchaomaesaitong: “The Cruncher” was known for his powerful strikes. He was also called “Fist of Mor Iam” in Thailand due to his victory dance under the rhythm Mor Iam after a victory. He was 2 times Lumpinee champion.
Rajadamnern Stadium: Tradition and Prestige
More ancient than Lumpinee, the Rajadamnern Stadium was built in 1945 and can host up to 8000 people. Steeped in history and tradition, it is considered to be the most prestigious Muay Thai Stadium. Most fighters in the Rajadamnern are more tactician and strategic than in Lumpinee.
Among the legends who marked the Rajadarmern:
- Chamurpet Harpalang: 70’s legend fighter, he was champion in different weight categories
- Kaoklai Kaennorsing: Fierce fighter, famous for his devastating kicks
- Somluck Kamsing: Nicknamed “The Punisher”, Champion of both Lumpineed and Rajadamnern
The Omnoi Stadium: Small in size but big in emotions
The Omnoi Stadium, also known as Siam Boxing Stadium, is known for its energetic atmosphere and exciting up-and-coming fighters.
Founded in 1984 by a group of businessmen, it was originally called Siam Boxing Stadium. It moved to its current location in the Om Noi district of Samut Sakhon province in 1987 and became known as Omnoi Stadium among fans.
Smaller than the other stadiums, Omnoi Stadium offers a more intimate and electric atmosphere. It’s a great place to experience the raw power and energy of Muay Thai.
Izuzu Tournaments is one of the tournaments which it is famous for. It features some of the best up-and-coming Muay Thai fighters in Thailand.
Which one to go to?
Either you prefer experiencing the atmosphere of the big stadiums, Rajadamnern or Lumpinee are defenitely the places to be. If on the other hand you prefer a more intimate but not less authentic experience, Omnoi Stadium is the one for you. If you have time, then definitely go to them 3, you will not regret it!
Many other stadiums could be in this article, but in order to make it more condensed, we made a focus on our top 3 stadiums. Feel free to comment which one would you put in your top 3 stadiums!
