Muay Thaimes: Burmese Lethwei: The Ancient Art of Bare Knuckle Fighting by Vincent Giordano

For those that missed or couldn't attend The Vanishing Flame:  Burma last year October 1, 2011, check out Muay Thaimes (Spring 2012 issue, Volume VI Number 1, pgs 72-79) for the article "Burmese Lethwei:  The Ancient Art of Bare Knuckle Fighting by Vincent Giordano".

Check this passage out from page 76:

"Lethwei fighters can use fists, palm strikes, throws, knees, elbows, kicks, head butts and some joint manipulations during a match. A groin shot is considered legal in the old system rules, since the fighter wore a cup and was told to protect himself just like he would protect his throat or head. In the modern fight arena, we see the groin shot frowned upon. There are generally warnings, before any disqualifications. No gouging or hair pulling or fish hooking is permitted, though they were legal in the ancient variant of the sport."
 

The article is a great overview of Burmese Lethwei!

If you cannot find this issue and want more information on the Burmese Bare Knuckle Fighting, check out my next post!