Photographer Spends 10 Years Capturing the Brutal Sport of Muay Thai
A photographer has documented the sport of Muay Thai for 10 years, traveling to the sport’s home in Thailand to capture impoverished youngsters quite literally fighting for a better life.
Lord K2’s black and white photographs show the raw energy that surrounds Muay Thai, sometimes known as Thai boxing, as well as the grit, pain threshold, and determination required to survive the sport.
“I used to train in Muay Thai in Thailand, where I became fascinated by its culture and traditions,” says the British photographer.
“I felt compelled to document the sport because no one had done so before. I was truly surprised that photographers overlooked the sport despite its fascinating and culturally rich nature.”
In his new book, Fighting For Hope, Lord K2 delves into the world of Muay Thai, showcasing young Thais who turn to the sport for a better life.
“Rather than facing potential destitution due to limited opportunities, a flawed education system, or falling into destructive behaviors like joining gangs or substance abuse, they channel their aspirations into Muay Thai which serves as a means of upward mobility for many kids from disadvantaged backgrounds,” he says.
The majority of fighters will not achieve fame or fortune but they can still make a career from the sport — becoming a trainer, referee, or gym owner — as well as gaining valuable skills like community support, physical fitness, and a sense of purpose.
“Additionally, the book delves into the challenges and sacrifices these fighters face on their journey, including the physical toll of training and competing, as well as the mental and emotional strains of pursuing their dreams,” adds the photographer.
Lord K2 traveled to all four regions of Thailand to see the different cultures of Muay Thai practices across The Land of Smiles.
“My biggest takeaway from this project is the importance of being patient and withholding my judgments until I’ve had ample time to fully experience and digest my subject matter first-hand,” he says.
Combat Sports Photographer
Lord K2 has previously appeared on PetaPixel for his work documenting the closed world of sumo wrestling in Japan.
“The main difference lies in access,” he says of the two disciplines. “It took me two years to freely access all areas of the Muay Thai industry, including ringside spots, dressing rooms, press offices, and doctor’s clinics at the major stadiums in Bangkok.
“Access to sumo was considerably more challenging. I had to make all the right connections and rely on good fortune, followed by obtaining permission to use every photo from the sumo association via fax.”
Fighting For Hope: An Insight Into the World of Muay Thai is published by 89books and available here.
More of Lord K2’s work can be found on his website and Instagram.
Image credits: Photographs by Lord K2
