If you’re new to the world of Muay Thai, you’ve probably come across two different ways of writing it: Muay Thai and Muaythai. So which one is correct?
The answer is… both are! But there’s a deeper story behind why these two spellings exist — and what they mean depending on where and how you use them. Let’s break it down.
Muay Thai: The Traditional Spelling
“Muay Thai” (written as two separate words) is the traditional and most commonly used way to refer to Thailand’s national sport. It directly translates to “Thai Boxing” — with “Muay” meaning boxing and “Thai” referring to Thailand.
This is the spelling most people around the world recognize, and you’ll see it used in gyms, books, movies, and general conversation.
But then comes the twist…
Muaythai: The Official Sport Name
When the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) began working to make Muay Thai an Olympic sport, they ran into a rule.
According to SportAccord (the global body that helps get sports into the Olympics), no sport’s name should include the name of a country. That meant “Muay Thai” (which literally has “Thai” in it) couldn’t be accepted in its original form.
So, to follow the rules, IFMA changed the spelling to “Muaythai” — a single word.
This version is now the official spelling used in global competitions, Olympic discussions, and other formal sporting events.
So here’s the key difference:
- Muay Thai = Traditional spelling, commonly used worldwide.
- Muaythai = Official spelling used by IFMA and Olympic circles.
So… Which Should You Use?
It depends on your context.
If you’re writing a blog, running a gym, or talking casually, Muay Thai is perfectly fine — and often more familiar to your audience.
But if you’re involved in international competitions, working with organizations like IFMA, or referencing the sport in an Olympic context, then go with Muaythai.
Either way, both spellings respect the art and tradition behind this powerful martial art known as the Art of Eight Limbs.
Bonus: Nak Muay vs. Nak Muay Farang — What’s That About?
Just like the spelling confusion, many people also wonder about the terms “Nak Muay” and “Nak Muay Farang”.
Let’s simplify that too:
- Nak Muay = A Muay Thai fighter or practitioner.
- Nak Muay Ying = A female Muay Thai fighter.
- Farang = Thai slang for “foreigner,” especially someone from the West.
- Nak Muay Farang = A foreign Muay Thai fighter (usually a Westerner).
So if you train in Thailand and you’re not Thai, people might refer to you as a Nak Muay Farang. It’s not a bad word — it’s just a way of saying you’re a non-Thai who practices Muay Thai.
In the End, It’s All About the Spirit
Whether you say Muay Thai or Muaythai, whether you’re a Nak Muay or a Nak Muay Farang, what matters most is the respect you bring to the art. The heart of Muay Thai lies in discipline, tradition, and spirit.
So keep training, keep learning, and remember — the name may vary, but the fight is the same.
Did you find this blog helpful? Share it with your fellow fighters or drop a comment with what you’d like to learn next about Muay Thai!
