Muay Boran (Traditional Thai Boxing)

Both fighters begin with a slow ceremonial dance that shows respect to teachers and pays tribute before sparring starts.

Fighters use fists, elbows, knees, and shins in controlled strikes and blocks rather than only punches and kicks.

Clinching at close range to redirect an opponent's balance is a key part of exchanges.

Strikes are generally practiced at reduced power or with pads in training rather than full contact, unless in a supervised match.

Rounds are timed, with a rest break between them for both fighters to recover.

A match can be judged on clean effective strikes landed, or simply practiced as skill drills between partners.