Muay Thai is one of the world’s renowned martial arts, renowned for its dominance in striking sport. Many martial arts embrace Muay Thai techniques and sometimes claim them as their own. However, the martial arts community acknowledges and appreciates Muay Thai’s contribution. Despite this, many continue to have unresolved questions. To solve these issues, we have included thorough information in our FAQ area to ensure that future generations learn the art of Muay Thai. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact us; we will try our best to give evidence-based answers.
Frequently asked question on Muay Thai
Q: What exactly is Muay Thai, and how is it different from other martial arts like boxing or karate?
A: Muay Thai is Thailand’s traditional combat sport, known as the “art of 8 limbs” or the “science of 8 limbs,” because it uses punches, kicks, knees, and elbows. Unlike boxing, which uses only fists, or karate, which emphasises strikes and katas, Muay Thai is a full-contact fighting sport held in a ring. Competitions are usually structured as either 2-minute, 3-round bouts or 3-minute, 5-round bouts.
Q: Why is it called the “Art of 8 Limbs,” and what does that mean in practice?
A: Because fighters use eight points of contact—fists, elbows, knees, and shins—it’s considered one of the most complete striking arts. Through its competitions and referee/judge certifications, Golden Mongkhon ensures Indian athletes and officials understand and apply these principles exactly as they are followed worldwide.
Q: Where did Muay Thai come from, and how old is the tradition?
A: It originated in Thailand centuries ago as a battlefield skill and evolved into a respected combat sport. While rooted in Thai culture, it’s now practiced globally. In India, Golden Mongkhon plays a role in preserving that authenticity by aligning national championships with international Muay Thai standards.
Q: What are the rules of a Muay Thai fight—what’s allowed and what’s not?
A: Punches, elbows, knees, kicks, and clinching are all part of Muay Thai. However, the rules differ depending on the competition level—Amateur, Pro-Amateur, or Professional. Within the amateur category, age groups also follow specific regulations. It is always advisable to check the organiser’s rules, as organisers have the freedom to make adjustments if the event is not sanctioned by a world body.
Golden Mongkhon events strictly follow international standards, ensuring Indian fighters compete under the same globally recognised framework. For the official Golden Mongkhon ruleset, click here.
Q: How do fighters train every day to prepare for fights—what does a typical routine look like?
A: Training typically includes running, shadow boxing, pad work, heavy bag drills, sparring, and clinching. Coaches usually design programs for fighters based on their weight class and upcoming fight schedule.
It is highly recommended to learn through real experience under a qualified coach rather than relying solely on the internet.
Q: Why do fighters perform a dance before the fight (Wai Kru Ram Muay), and what’s the meaning behind it?
A: The Wai Kru Ram Muay is performed before fights as a mark of respect and tradition. Wai Kru means paying respect to teachers, parents, and coaches, while Ram Muay is the dance that symbolises protection, cultural pride, and mental focus.
It helps fighters calm their minds, honour their roots, and prepare spiritually for battle. At Golden Mongkhon events, this tradition is encouraged so Indian fighters experience Muay Thai as it’s truly meant to be—both a sport and a cultural heritage.
Q: Can someone like me, with no experience, start learning Muay Thai, and how long does it take to get good at it?
A: Yes—anyone can start Muay Thai. Progress becomes visible within a few months, though true mastery takes years. Beginners who stay consistent will always find opportunities to grow.
It ultimately depends on your goal—whether you aim to become a professional fighter on big platforms or simply want to test your skills at the club or state championship level.
Q: Is Muay Thai officially recognised as a sport in India?
A: Muay Thai in India is steadily growing, with athletes actively competing at state, national, and international levels. While it is not yet listed as an official sport under the Sports Authority of India, it holds global recognition through prestigious organisations such as WMF & IFMA,
Golden Mongkhon is proudly associated with the World MuayThai Federation (WMF), while other bodies in India are linked to the other two international organisations.
At the same time, Golden Mongkhon is building its own legacy, establishing itself as a trusted platform and brand that contributes to the growth and recognition of Muay Thai in India.
Q: Are there national-level championships for Muay Thai in India, and how often are they held?
A: Yes — India does host national-level Muay Thai championships through Golden Mongkhon. Typically, the Amateur National Championship takes place around late April or early May, while the Golden Mongkhon Title National Championship is held every January.
Q: Do Indian fighters get to compete internationally under the Indian flag?
A: Yes, Indian Muay Thai fighters do compete on the international stage. India has participated in prestigious events such as the World Muay Thai Championship and the Asian Muay Thai Championship. Golden Mongkhon has proudly led Indian teams to these platforms, supporting athletes in achieving international success.
A historic milestone was achieved in 2024, when Thiru Balchandra became India’s first World Champion, winning the title at the 20th World Muay Thai Championship in Bangkok, Thailand, under the Indian flag with Golden Mongkhon International.
Q: What kind of career path can an Indian Muay Thai athlete expect—both amateur and professional?
A: The typical pathway begins with local training, followed by participation in state or regional tournaments. From there, athletes progress to the National Championships under Golden Mongkhon, where top performers may be selected to represent India in international amateur events such as the Asian or World Championships.
From this stage, some fighters continue as amateurs, while others transition into the Pro-Am circuit, professional bouts, leagues, or international pro-card events. The journey can vary for each athlete, and while earnings and sponsorship opportunities are growing, they are still in the early stages of development in India.
Frequently asked question on Golden Mongkhon
Q: What is Golden Mongkhon International (GMI)?
A: Golden Mongkhon International (GMI) is a Muay Thai organisation in India that promotes, regulates, and develops the sport at national and international levels. GMI was founded in 2022 and is built on a history of hosting Muay Thai events in India since 2010. It works as a national platform for events, fighter rankings, and official certifications. The organisation focuses on Pro-Amateur (semi-pro) and Professional Muay Thai promotion.
Q: Does this mean Golden Mongkhon International (GMI) will not organise Amateur events?
A: Golden Mongkhon International (GMI) is focused on Pro-Amateur (semi-pro) and Professional Muay Thai. Amateur-level events are not part of GMI’s scope, as the organisation is dedicated to providing a platform for fighters progressing beyond the amateur stage.
However, Golden Mongkhon has been conducting amateur events mainly at the state and zonal levels for scouting purposes. In the near future, these events will be shifted to National federation or state associations that are either affiliated with or partnered under GMI.
Q: Who is behind Golden Mongkhon International?
A: The shareholders are Sushma Murgod and Dilip Kumar. Mr. Hemanth Kumar serves as the Co-Founder and Managing Partner, playing a pivotal role in promoting Muay Thai in India through GMI. He brings extensive experience in sports promotion and event management.
Q: Is Golden Mongkhon affiliated with any international Muay Thai organisations?
A: Yes, GMI has received affiliation from the World Muay Thai Federation, becoming the sole representative from India to promote WMF activities, however GMI has his own goals that they full fill with Pro-Am (Semi Pro) and Professional Muay Thai events,
Q: Why did you choose the name “Golden Mongkhon”—does it have a special meaning in Muay Thai?
A: The name references the “Mongkhon” (mongkon) — the sacred headband worn by Muay Thai fighters during the Wai Kru / Ram Muay ritual. Golden Mongkhon explains the symbolism (protection, respect for teachers and tradition) and says the name reflects their intent to honour Muay Thai’s cultural heritage while presenting it in India.
Q: What kind of events does Golden Mongkhon organise in India?
A: Golden Mongkhon organises multi-level Muay Thai events including its annual Golden Mongkhon Title/Title-Belt Championships (Being Primary National Championship) (e.g., 5th, 6th editions), Professional fights and Referee & Judge Certification Courses. Their events calendar shows recurring national championships, pro-amateur events, and certification courses for officials.
Q: Is Golden Mongkhon only for professional fighters?
A: No. Golden Mongkhon works with Pro-Amateur and Professional fighters, but beginners can start through affiliated clubs and state associations, giving them a pathway to grow and reach GMI levels.
Q: Can beginners still get a chance to compete under GMI?
A: Yes. Stay connected with Golden Mongkhon’s channels, as GMI also sanctions amateur events for scouting purposes—offering great opportunities to showcase your skills.
Q: How do Golden Mongkhon events help Indian fighters get international recognition?
A: Golden Mongkhon positions its championships as selection and exposure platforms for international events. For example, GM Title Belt Championship served as an official selection platform for the Indian team for the World Muay Thai Championship, and they publicise results of Indian athletes at WMF World Championships. GMI also affiliation/working relations with the World Muay Thai Federation (WMF) to provide international pathways.
Q: What makes Golden Mongkhon different from other Muay Thai promotions in India?
A: International Standards – Global rules, certified officials, and fair governance.
Transparent Rankings – Merit-based system guiding titles & team selection.
Clear Athlete Pathway – From local events to national and international stages.
Athlete Safety First – Medical checks, standardised scoring, and fair procedures.
Proven Track Record – Indian teams led abroad with podium results.
Q: Does Golden Mongkhon also train referees, judges, and coaches, or only focus on athletes?
A: Yes — Golden Mongkhon actively invests in education and accreditation. They conduct Referee & Judge Certification Courses and also maintain a list of Recognised/Registered Coaches. Their events and certification archives highlight multiple certification programs held across 2024–2025, along with consistent efforts to encourage officials to be properly certified.
Beyond referee and judge training, Golden Mongkhon also offers grading programs, coach certifications, and master-level certifications, ensuring that every aspect of Muay Thai development in India is backed by qualified and accredited professionals.
Q: How can someone join or participate in Golden Mongkhon—whether as a fighter, coach, or even a fan?
A: Fighters, coaches, and fans can stay updated on Golden Mongkhon’s events and programs by following their official social media pages, Instagram updates, and WhatsApp channels. Participation is simple — just register online through the official links provided.
However, it is important to carefully read the terms and conditions and register only if you meet the required criteria.