Muay Thai struggles to strike the right balance

Resistance

But there is resistance from traditionalists such as trainer Apiprat Lertrakcheewakul, who says stricter safety requirements will dilute the "character" of the sport.

"If (fighters) need to wear headguards or shin guards, it won't be Muay Thai anymore, it will be boxing," he said.

He also defended the young age at which many Thai fighters begin training — the youngest in his gym is 7 years old.

"Otherwise there is no way to hold up against foreign boxers. You have to stay No 1, because it's the national sport."

For Anthony Durand, the Frenchman who delivered the fatal blow to Panphet, the dream is over — after 28 bouts he has quit the sport for good.

"Since (the fight) my life has not been the same," Durand told AFP.

"My days are empty," he said. "It didn't bother me, the risks, until I understood that death was part of it."

AFP