Sweat, blood and adrenaline pump through AXN in The Challenger Muaythai.
Things are about to get bloody exciting on AXN. The network is bringing the heat of the fight back to TV screens with a brand new series The Challenger Muaythai, and in high definition no less! Whether for glory or gain, 16 world-class fighters will fight it out to win the ultimate title of Muaythai World Champion and the grand prize of US$100,000!
From Malaysia, Thailand to Israel and South Africa, the motley crew of fighters trail blaze an impressive track record both in their countries and in the international arena, with numerous championship titles under their belts. With ages ranging from 18 to 35, the calibre of fighters is certainly unparalleled. Some have started their training since the tender age of seven, while others have fought The Contender Asia champion Yodsanklai and even won. With intimidating monikers like ‘The Cheetah’, ‘The Sniper’ and ‘Black Dynamite’, it is clear that the boys are not in town to play. With such high stakes, each and every fighter will not go down without a fight!
Each week, the fighters will be subjected to a rigorous bout of training from their two trainers Hanarong and Nugget, revolving around the ‘weapon of the week’. These include spiritual ideals such as respect and fearlessness, as well as focusing on each component of their body, their natural weapon in the context of Muaythai.
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Did you know? The art of the Wai Khru ritual.
For those who have studied or have trained in the art of Muaythai, many are quite confused and many have asked why do we have to do the Wai Khru ritual? Is it for beauty, entertainment, commemoration or exercise? This is the first thing a boxer learns in Muaythai, the Wai Khru is not designed to insult or show off to the opponent. It is a ritual in memory and in respect of the mentor who have given the boxer his knowledge and skill. To go deeper into the reasons why we do the Wai Khru ritual is due to 3 beneficial reasons as follows:
- To Merit and Worship God
If we consider the roots of all different types of art, it can be seen that religion plays a vital and influential role in its direction. Therefore, all different form of art attempts to bring man closer to God (If you do not believe in God then it is quite difficult for you to understand art, especially the art of Muaythai and the Wai Khru ritual). Hence, the Wai Khru and its music is to worship all the gods, especially the god Pra Isuan, the creator and the ruler of the universe. It is then appropriate for Muaythai Boxers to invite and accept the holy spirits into their bodies and minds.
- Heart and Soul
Other than the invitation of the holy spirits, the art of the Wai Khru is to prepare the boxer’s heart and soul to another level - the level of divine and supernatural conditions. Physical body and time must be forgotten so as the Muaythai Boxers can take on this divine force. The problem that often occurs is whether the boxer can reach this spiritual being or not. It can be achieved, but only if the boxer concentrates during the Wai Khru with true sincerity and respect. But what will happen if we do not perform the Wai Khru? One of two things could occur, firstly the art of Muaythai would not exist and secondly the boxers would not fully understand the art of Muaythai. Therefore the Wai Khru ceremony is very important. We may not be able to see this auspicious force but the boxer himself can feel the existence of his mentor by his side.
- Entertainment and Strength
The god, Pra l-Suan presented humans with the gift of music and dancing so that people can enjoy true happiness. True happiness without greed and selfishness will induce us to forget our own body and time, Therefore, during the Wai Khru the boxers should let their soul leave the body and let the holy spirit take over. Boxers who practice the kah-tah (religions verse) during the Wai Khru believe that these verses will give them supernatural power.
