Combat Culture

Today on Muay Thai for Nerds, we’re covering one of the toughest classes ever added to PvP: Kyokushin.

Known for full-contact sparring, brutal conditioning, and the legendary 100-Man Kumite, Kyokushin has produced world-class fighters across kickboxing, MMA, and beyond.

Its influence can still be seen in modern striking today.

What martial art should we cover next?

You’ve probably heard of Muay Thai, but did you know the Philippines has its own kickboxing style?

Yaw-Yan, or Sayaw ng Kamatayan (“Dance of Death”), is a Filipino striking art known for its powerful downward-cutting kicks, dynamic spinning attacks, and techniques inspired by Filipino martial arts.

What martial art should I explain next?

Did you know?

Between 1988 and 1989, Wanchannoi Sor Palangchai put together one of the greatest runs in Muay Thai history, defeating a string of Golden Era champions and legends, including Samart Payakaroon.

It’s one of the most impressive résumés the sport has ever seen.

Which Golden Era legend should I cover next?

Wanchannoi Sor Palangchai is one of the greatest Muay Thai fighters you’ve probably never heard of.

Nicknamed the “33-Second Puncher,” he was feared for his devastating boxing, won five Lumpinee Stadium titles, and famously defeated Samart Payakaroon in the fight that sent the legend into retirement.

A true icon of Muay Thai’s Golden Era.

Who’s another Golden Era fighter that deserves more recognition?

One of Mike Tyson’s most famous knockouts was more than just another title defense.

It was the fulfillment of a promise he made to his childhood hero, Muhammad Ali, eight years earlier.