Instead of a first night shnazzy-big-city-dinner, we opted to wander deep into the heart of Bangkok to catch a traditional Muay Thai match at Lumpinee Stadium. The main event of the evening was a bout between two famous Thai fighters and somehow, we lucked out and were able to find ring side seats. A Muay Thai boxing match is an experience unlike any other. You can feel the energy pulsing through the stadium and around the ring before the matches even begin. The Thai fighters seemed to be surprisingly young and entered the ring draped in tropical florals, circling each other and preforming a ceremonial dance before bowing to each of the four corners in prayer. The incredible heat that pervades this country only seemed to fuel the intensity of the evening and their muscular, taut bodies were glistening with sweat before the fighting even began. The fighters began to circle each other and the beating of the traditional Thai drums pulsed through the crowd while a single Thai flute rang loud and clear, both increasing in pace and intensity as the fight progressed. The fighters lunged and attacked like tigers, wearing masks of pure aggression while the crowd would scream in unison at each kick or punch, the roar vibrating the whole stadium. Each explosive blow created sprays of sweat and blood that shimmered in the light. Needless to say, Oteil was beside himself with excitement! We witnessed one "knock out" and the fighter was carried out of the ring, completely unconscious, on a stretcher.
